Historical landmarks recognize Alabama’s early cultures

While Alabama has definitely defined its own local character and culture since its unification in 1819, there have been settlers living in the region for much longer. Several sites recognized as National Historic Landmarks in the area remind us of the cultures that preceded the Alabama of today.The Bottle Creek Indian Mounds are located at the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta in Mobile, Alabama. Archaeologists recognize the site as one of the premier locations of Mississippian culturethe Native American tribes that occupied the Midwestern, Eastern, and Southeastern US between 800 CE and 1500 CE. The Bottle Creek site is thought to have been occupied between 1250 and 1550 CE, and consists of 18 earthen mounds. The tallest one is 45 feet high. The mounds usually served as platforms for temples or houses, which were built on top.The Yuchi Town Site, located in Fort Benning, Alabama, is a late prehistoric and historic era site, declared a National Historic Landmark in 1996. Both the Apalachicola and Yuchi tribes made their homes here at various times, and archaeologists view the site as an example of how tribes held on to their cultural integrity during early US expansion. The Apalachicola lived in the village first, between 1650 and 1715 CE. In the 17^th century they allied with the Spanish and were destroyed by the English as a result. The Yuchi occupied the site following this tragedy, and also allied with various European forces. However, they were able to maintain their identity until they were removed to Oklahoma in 1836.The earlier cultures of Alabama still remain an integral part of the state’s culture today. Travelers should make it a point to investigate these sites during their journeys and learn more about Alabama’s journey to the present day.

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