Chariton Mound (23CH55)
The Chariton Mound was discovered by an archaeological survey crew from MSU during 1976.
The site is significance because it is one of approximately a dozen Middle Woodland Period village site in the Central Missouri
River Valley.
Artifacts in a private collection from the site include pottery sherds with punch and boss decoration,
incised lines, dentate stamping, rocker marking, and cordmarking. Stone tools include ground hematite
celts, a three-quarter grooved axe, and a variety of chipped chert tools. At least two of the
bifacially flaked tools show evidence of polishing that would suggest agricultural
activities. Historic pieces of metal, glass, and china are related to a 19th century
farm house which once stood on the summit of the site. The site is privately owned and is posted against
trespassers or collectors. Please respect the owner's rights to privacy.
View of the Chariton Mound when planted in corn during the 1970s. The mound is more of a natural
feature than a man-made construction.
Ox-bow lake near the Chariton Mound was part of the rich riverine resources exploited by
the Native Americans living at the site.
Stone tools from the Chariton Mound
Middle Woodland pottery sherds with dentate, rocker, and zoned decoration from
Chariton Mound (23CH55).
Middle Woodland Period sherds from Chariton Mount (23CH55).
Webpage constructed 23 January 2006
Webpage updated 25 January 2006