KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Archeologists believe they have mostly solved the mystery into the purpose of a Native American mound located at Bronson Park in downtown Kalamazoo.
A study using ground-penetrating radar found a ring of posts driven into the ground around the edges of the circular earthwork, suggesting that it was a sacred place. Only a time capsule buried 60 years ago was found in the mound itself.
Archeologist David Brose says the design suggests it was likely built sometime between 700 and 1200 A.D. and was used for some sort of tribal ceremonies.
“The mound was not a burial mound, there were no burials located in it. The mound itself had been built to commemorate some ceremonial activities that had taken place either in or around some sort of circular structure.”
Gun Lake Tribal Councilwoman Phillis Davis says the plan is to place educational markers at the north, south, east and west edge of the mound that tells the story of those who lived in the city hundreds of years ago.
“For those ancestors, it’s one of the best ways we can learn to respect those who have walked on and were here thousands of years before we were.”
Deputy City Manager Jeff Chamberlain says the city’s plan is to ring the mound with Grandfather Stones and cover it with native plants.
“We will be doing some contracting this winter. We believe that come early next summer, this is what you will see at Bronson Park”
The mound’s surface has been restored and will be planted in the spring.
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