There are few places in the Ohio-Pennsylvania-West Virginia area that I love as much as the Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex in Moundsville, West Virginia. While I’m originally from Ohio (where the Serpent Mound reigns supreme among unusual geological sites), the eponymous Moundsville mound has its own set of awe-inspiring charms.
This 2,000-year-old mound is the work of the Adena people, an ancient Native American tribe who buried ancestors and artifacts in the 60,000 tons of dirt, which measure 295 feet across and 69 feet tall. It’s a beautiful sight to behold and one that is a must-see for anyone in the tri-state area. And while the mound itself is impressive enough for an afternoon trip, the on-site museum also maintains an incredible set of rotating displays. From marbles and china to fashion dolls and glass art, there is no end to the West Virginia treasures you’ll discover on your visit. Stop by the gift shop on the way out for bizarre one-of-a-kind finds including giant beetles suspended in resin and, of course, a variety of fossils.
Although the mound itself is best to visit between April and November when you can more easily hike to the top, that doesn’t mean the Grave Creek Mound doesn’t keep busy year-round. This week, on March 7th, the museum will sponsor its semiannual Fossil Day. From noon to 4 p.m., anyone can bring a fossil to the museum, and a professional geologist will be there to identify it. Other activities for children and adults alike include indoor archaeological digs and unique fossil displays. As with most of the activities at Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex, the event is free and open to the public of all ages.
So if you’re ever in the Wheeling, West Virginia area, be sure to swing by nearby Moundsville. It’s well worth the detour.
Happy haunting!