Near Stanton in Adams County, Mississippi — The American South (East South Central)
Emerald Mound
Photographed By Duane Hall, August 4, 2015
1. Emerald Mound Marker
Before you is a 30 foot secondary mound on which once stood a temple containing sacred Indian images.
Archeological evidence indicates that at least two small mounds stood along the North and South sides of the primary platform. These mounds may have supported structures of wood plastered with clay.
Using primitive tools of wood, stone and bone, the Indians loaded the dirt into baskets or skins which they carried on their backs or heads. A base for temple mounds, the great platform is believed to have also provided a plaza for ceremonies and games.
Archeological tests in 1949 indicated that this platform mound was constructed in several stages. Beginning with the natural hilltop, Indians gradually transformed the hill into a flat-topped pyramid. First leveling off the hill, they later added thousands of tons of earth from near the base.
On important occasions the mound was the scene of elaborate civic processions, ceremonial dances, and intricate and solemn religious rituals where worshipers sought favor of their gods.
Erected by National Park Service.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Anthropology & Archaeology • Churches & Religion
this page online
Location. 31° 38.152′ N, 91° 14.867′ W. Marker is near Stanton, Mississippi, in Adams County. Marker can be reached from Emerald Mound Road, one mile Natchez Trace Parkway, on the right when traveling west. Emerald Mound Road is accessed from the Natchez Trace Parkway at Mile Marker 10.3. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Natchez MS 39120, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 2 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. A different marker also named Emerald Mound (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Emerald Mound (within shouting distance of this marker); Still Sacred (within shouting distance of this marker); One Mound Among Many (within shouting distance of this marker); A Well-Organized Society (within shouting distance of this marker); A Remarkable Feat (within shouting distance of this marker); Old Trace (approx. 1˝ miles away); Territorial Lifeline (approx. 1˝ miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Stanton.
Also see . . . Natchez Trace Parkway. Official National Park Service website. (Submitted on August 16, 2015.)
Photographed By Duane Hall, August 4, 2015
2. Marker in Front of Secondary Mound
Photographed By Duane Hall, August 4, 2015
3. The Primary Platform of Emerald Mound
Photographed By Duane Hall, August 4, 2015
4. Primary Platform Viewed from
Top of Secondary Mound
Top of Secondary Mound
Photographed By Duane Hall, August 4, 2015
5. Primary Platform and Secondary Mound of Emerald Mound
Credits. This page was last revised on December 16, 2020. It was originally submitted on August 16, 2015, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas. This page has been viewed 405 times since then and 19 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. submitted on August 16, 2015, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas.
