Visit some of NC's earliest residents at Town Creek Indian Mound

We may never make it to every North Carolina state historic site, but we're slowly making progress.

Town Creek Indian Mound was our most recent venture. It's located in Mt. Gilead, and admission is free. This is the oldest historic site in the state and the only entirely one devoted to American Indian history.

The serene countryside, well-kept, open farmland and meandering roads made for a pleasing afternoon drive. If you like to slow down and enjoy the scenery, you'll appreciate many areas along this route.

Upon our arrival, parking was plentiful, and although there was a steady stream of newcomers, it was never full.

Town Creek Indian Mound Museum

Your visit begins in the gift shop. You'll register your name and the date. Again, entrance is free but donations are accepted. The gift shop has jewelry, arrowheads, rabbit hides, books and other things you'd expect to find. In an area next to it is the museum.

You'll first watch a 20-minute film about the discovery and excavation of this site, and a look into the Pee Dee culture.

Get a preview: The same video is available online.

It's a short walk through the museum but information is plentiful. You'll read about The Paleoindian Period and the journey to North Carolina. You'll get a look at how travel expanded, diets evolved and tools advanced throughout The Archaic Period and beyond.

A wall of photos commemorates the timeline of the site's excavation. If you're unfamiliar with North Carolina's state historic sites, there's an information display with pictures and a map. Something we found most fascinating was facial reconstructions of people buried on the grounds.

(If you'd prefer a guided tour of the museum, there is a small fee, and that option depends on tour guide availability.)

Visit the Town Creek Indian Village

Archeologists have been working at Town Creek for decades, and progress continues today on a smaller scale.

This area has been a burial ground but also a sanctuary, a place for celebrations, a meeting space for important discussions and a site for religious ceremonies. Over time, various artifacts were discovered by locals and archeologists alike, giving us a portal to the past. The findings reveal insight into what life was like for indigenous people inhabited here.

The grassy trail begins at a monument recognizing the area as a historic site. From there, it's a short walk to a massive wooden fence entrance.

There are three structures within the prehistoric village.

Our first stop was in the mortuary, a burial exhibit with audio information about the scene. Ironically, the deceased were buried within their homes – the same place where the family carried out daily life. This was to ensure the person's safety even in death.

Next, we climbed the mound to the village townhouse. You'll see animal pictures drawn on the walls that represent the tribes' different clans. Ceremonies and important meetings were held here, along with the sacred fire.

From my understanding, the longevity of the burning fire was believed to signify fortune and, equally, misfortune. Surrounding the fire is logged seating where gathered leaders sat on their designated sides.

One more hut is in the village.

What we noticed about each structure is the small size of the entrances. We learned that size served as protection from enemy ambushes.

Hike along the river

Participate in North Carolina's Year of the Trail by taking a walk on the site's 1/4 mile nature trail. It's located along the river bottom (Little River). There are outdoor exhibits with information about animals and plants native to the area. Afterward, take advantage of the picnic tables out front for lunch or a quick rest break.

Town Creek Indian Mound
509 Town Creek Mound Rd.
Mt. Gilead, NC 27306

Tandra Wilkerson is a regular WRAL Family contributor. You can read more of her adventures on her blog, Thriller Mom. You can also find Thriller Mom on Twitter or Thriller Mom on Facebook.