Pottery not only provides a basis for dating but also helps archaeologists investigate diet, cuisine, technological change, social learning, social boundaries, kinship, trade and exchange, migration, demography, and many other topics. WebCrystal River, Florida ~ Mayan City, Glyphs, Stelae & Artifacts 13,150 views Aug 30, 2019 723 Dislike Share cf-apps7865 112K subscribers By request. The ramp led from the top of the mound to a causeway that crossed a small lagoon towards the main burial area. The view is from the boardwalk at the spring. Thanks for all the great articles you do! I cant recommend a particular outfitter, but the wildlife refuge offers a list of licensed companies. By the time the Native Americans abandoned the Crystal River Site, around 1,400 AD, the midden had grown to be about 1,300 feet long, 100 feet wide and seven to ten feet deep, and was crescent shaped. It is the longest occupied site in Florida for over 1600 years. Contact the Statewide Information Line: (And I suspect there would be crowds.). Heres our report on kayaking the Chaz. (The U.S. WebCrystal River State Archaeological Site is a 61-acre (250,000 m 2) Florida State Park located on the Crystal River and within the Crystal River Preserve State Park. Named for a town in New Mexico where these artifacts were first found in association with bones of now extinct Ice Age animals, Clovis points have been found across most of eastern North America, including Arkansas. This was the first permanent home for the Crystal River City Government and was used as city hall until the early 1970s. The charcoal was 19 feet below the top of the mound. That is because oyster, clam, mussel, conch, crab and snails seem to be just some of the favorite foods of these people. A National Historic Landmark, this 61-acre, six mound, pre-contact, Native American site has burial mounds, temple platform mounds, a plaza area and a substantial midden. Thanks so much for this information. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Bushnell, Also See:Palm Harbor, FL Things to DoThings to Do in Gibsonton, FloridaThings to Do in Sarasota, FL. The environment was becoming too warm for these animals to survive successfully, although it was cooler, dryer and more desert-like in Florida at that time than it is now. The park is believed to have been a ceremonial site for Sacred ceramics are found primarily in mounds, while secular ceramics are found primarily in middens and house sites. Hike the breathtaking trails and enjoy sightings of wildlife roaming around their home. Best known for discovering ancient Mayan canoes and pyramids in Citrus County, Ozello Boats is a top-rated family-owned airboat tour agency manned by Florida-born captains. WebPeople travelled from great distances to celebrate events, conduct cultural and practical trade, and bury their dead. Over the course of 20 years Moore excavated countless sites in Florida. (We were lucky enough to see a family of otters.) When the warmth begins, take a dip with the little ones in Crystal Rivers calm cerulean waters, take a rejuvenating stroll on the boardwalk, and spot dolphins, otters, crabs, and fish. Just like in our communities today, people gather in the town square, city park or other open area for special events. If swimming with manatees, scallop hunting, and exploring Floridas dark history sound like your next escapade, here are the best things to do in Crystal River, FL to get you started. It looks like a stage and even has a remnant of a ramp off the back, maybe the stage access for performers. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Retreat at Crystal Manatee, 3266 N Sailboat AvenueCrystal River, FL 34428(352) 228-6028. Opened to the public in 1965, this historically significant example of mid-century modern architecture naturally leads the eye to the heavens, arousing feelings of wonder. WebTop ways to experience Crystal River Archaeological State Park and nearby attractions Crystal River Inshore Fishing Charter Adventure Tours from $486.87 per group (up to 2) Clear Kayak Tour of Crystal River 587 Recommended Adventure Tours from $75.00 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Crystal River Manatee Swim in Kings Bay National Wildlife Refuge This would have provided easy access to food (fish and shellfish), cooling sea breezes and ease of transport (canoe). [citation needed], The park is also home to a limestone slab, possibly a "stele", on which is a crudely carved human face and torso. "Stelae at the Crystal River Site, Florida". Temple Mound A is one of the most recognizable and photographed of the mounds at Crystal River State Archaeological Park. The mound was constructed of recycled midden material that was carried and deposited basket load by basket load until the structure was finished. There are tours available in the area for wildlife excursions, so book ahead to experience boating, paddling, and swimming with manatees. Prices average about $60 per person, including wetsuits and snorkeling gear. Look closely and you may be able to imagine how the design mimics the flat-topped temple mound features at the site. The Franklin Anderson Gallery of Arts is one of Citrus Countys premiere fine art galleries dedicated to the local art scenes multidisciplinary works. We did not swim with the manatees. Interpretive exhibits explore the chronology of archaeological excavations which occurred at the site beginning in 1903. Built in 1939, this old city hall currently houses a local history museum. The boardwalk includes an elevated viewing area of the mouth of the spring, where you have an excellent vantage point of Idiots Delight Spring. (Some outfitters try to provide a less-crowded experience by offering small-group early-morning tours at 6:15 a.m. for a $90 ticket price. WebIt is a Clovis type spear point made of crystal quartz. This quaint little museum is one of the most iconic things to see in Crystal River, especially for history buffs. Opened to the public in 1965, this historically significant example of mid-century modern architecture naturally leads the eye to the heavens, arousing feelings of wonder. The highly rated Florida Fishing Adventures is run by locals who know the Crystal Rivers waters by heart. The World Famous Crystal River Site (Part I)By Jason D. Moser and Richard Estabrook Florida Public Archaeology Blog, Ceramic Technology Lab, University of Florida Museum of Natural History https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/ceramiclab/, Trail of Florida's Indian Heritage, Inc. | Site Design and Management by Runjik Productions, https://doi.org/10.1080/0734578X.2016.1252190, https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/ceramiclab/. The original shape of the mound was a rectangular pyramid designed with a large sloped ramp. Designed by architects David Reaves and Dan Branch, the attention to detail in the look and layout combined practicality with visions of majesty. AtHomosassa State Park, 15 minutes south of Crystal River, you can see manatees every day via the parksunderwater observatory of its resident manatee population. Crystal River Archaeological State Park This ancient archaeological park is home to Native American burial mounds, abandoned temple and platform mounds, and so much more. Some limestone tempered pottery was also found. Crystal River Archaeological State Park This ancient archaeological park is home to Native American burial mounds, abandoned temple and platform mounds, and so much more. Next image. WebIt is a Clovis type spear point made of crystal quartz. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Inverness, 11 NE 4th AvenueCrystal River, FL 34429(352) 564-9463. Theres a complication, though: There is no parking at the refuge. ONE OF THE LONGEST CONTINUALLY OCCUPIED SITES IN FLORIDA! Always remember, it is illegal to collect artifacts on public land, so anything you find that resembles pottery shards, arrowheads, and the like will need to be put back where it was found. The Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park contains the remnants of an enormous sugar plantation from the Victorian era. It is estimated that about 1,200 to 1,500 people were buried in this complex. Dr. Richard Estabrook (University of South Florida, FPAN) Archaeologist/Cultural Resources Manager, page information credit: Florida State Parks, Florida Museum of Natural History, Florida Department of Historical Resources, Wikipedia, and previous Trail website content, photos from the sources listed above, as well as publicly posted online sites with thanks to the contributors, https://www.trailoffloridasindianheritage.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/crystal.mp3. Also found in the Midden Area are various kinds of woodland animal bones, fish bones, turtle shells, broken pottery, broken hand tools and arrowheads. Wander around the preserved limestone masonry chimney, iron gears, cane press, and other machinery. The base of the mound covered an area 200 feet long and 100 feet wide. After the trip, enjoy grilling your days catch with the family. (Summer rates are $12.50 adults and seniors. Along the Gulf Coast, the Deptford Culture continued the seasonal existence throughout the Middle Woodland Period. From land, look for manatees at Crystal River State Archaeological Site, whose vantage atop a 28-foot native American mound overlooking the river is a worthy climb. The platform was constructed as burials filled in the gap between the ring and the cone. It depends how manatee-crazy you are. About 15 minutes south of downtown Crystal River, Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park is a reminder of Floridas dark past. As the sea level rise began to slow down, stable coastlines developed. WebCrystal River State Archaeological Site is a 61-acre (250,000 m 2) Florida State Park located on the Crystal River and within the Crystal River Preserve State Park. In 1960, much of the mound was used for road fill by a previous land owner. You'll find a variety of diving locations with clear waters and incredible views. The tool was kept well polished. Twenty minutes from Crystal Rivers city center lies Fort Island Gulf Beach, a public beach that faces the Gulf of Mexico. How does a day at a family-friendly beach sound? Adjacent to a mangrove-filled Banana Island in Kings Bay is Kings Spring, the largest and original spring that prompted the creation of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in 1983. How about celebrating your Crystal River getaway with the citys premier winery? Here, we could observe five manatees clearly, including a baby estimated to be a 4 to 6 weeks old. Among the best fishing excursions is offered by Florida Fishing Adventures, where youre assured big catches fast! Weeden Island cultures are defined by ceramics, which fall into two categories, sometimes called secular and sacred. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Here are a few other ideas: Theres a tiny historic downtown with a few cute shops, a historic train station/museum and a beautiful street lined with live oaks planted by the womens club 100 years ago. Looking for free things to do in Crystal River? Pottery types in the burial mounds included these and other styles originating from a greater distance away, further validating the idea of the site's regional pilgrimage and ceremonial center status. Artifacts from pottery to projectile points found at the nearby archaeological site as well as others are all displayed here, and timelines provide comparisons with historical events occurring in other parts of the world during similar time periods. @Barbara: Three Sisters Springs has a wheelchair accessible boardwalk. They are trying to understand how and why the Crystal River site became one of the first culturally complex societies to develop along Floridas Gulf Coast. It is the only place in Florida to develop programs where you can swim with the manatees. Always remember, it is illegal to collect artifacts on public land, so anything you find that resembles pottery shards, arrowheads, and the like will need to be put back where it was found. Its gorgeous: A rare freshwater spring that has never been developed as a swimming hole or park, still featuring natural lush vegetation around its vivid and clear turquoise waters. These would have been used for practical and ceremonial purposes. This 61 acre National Historic Landmark is a six- mound Columbian complex with a burial site, temples and platforms situated on a costal marsh. Visitors start a visit on apontoon boat ride down Pepper Creek to the wildlife park, where you also see Florida panthers,bears, bobcats, deer, alligators and a wide variety of birds. AllTrails Kick Larrabee Head on over to The Peace River to see if you can hunt for fossils in this epic modern-day treasure hunt. All rights reserved. Yankeetown still remembers the day Elvis came to town he filmed Follow That Dream here in summer 1961. (Personally, Ive never had the desire and have been convinced its not really good for manatees.) Swimming into Three Sisters Springs is a challenge, even for good swimmers. The Chassahowitzka River, better known as the Chaz, is a spectacularly beautiful spot 25 minutes south of Crystal River. Ever wondered how you can string together the best Crystal River water adventures? Snorkelers swim against a swift current to enter Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River. The park is believed to have been a ceremonial site for At this site there were at least four of these large stone stela set up by the people who lived here in ancient times. We went on toward Three Sisters Springs, but before we got there, a manatee swam under our canoe in KingsBay. Ready yourself for a 25-foot climb as you traverse through 24 aerial obstacles amidst Crystal Rivers tree canopies. I will be traveling with a handicapped person, so I'm hoping you might tell us the best place to view some with handicapped acess. The height of the mound was about 30 feet above the midden it was built on. Next image. This still remains a mystery. These exchanges contributed to the development of intricate, regional sacred rituals that were repeated for generations, indicating that the peoples of the Crystal River site were developing more complex societies. The salt water in the Gulf of Mexico mixed with the fresh water flowing from the rivers in the region. The average bone point artifact was four inches in length. The park is believed to have been a ceremonial site for This timespan makes it one of the longest continually occupied sites in Florida, believed to have been occupied for more than 1,600 years without abandonment. Explore the untouched areas of Crystal Rivers terrain and enjoy endless opportunities to observe wildlife, such as dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, sharks, stingrays, bald eagles, coral, wild pigs, alligators, deer, and various bird species. Confirm details when planning visits. Because of kinships and marriage between members of different communities, pottery was often moved around in Florida. As such, the analysis of pottery forms a cornerstone of many archaeological research programs. Books about Crystal Rivers prehistoric to modern history are also available here. WebThe Coastal Heritage Museum is a local history museum located in the old City Hall building at 532 N Citrus Avenue, Crystal River FL. This began to change as the sea levels rose when the ice covering much of the northern continents began to melt. The causeway ran along the edge of a large flat area in the middle of the mounds, called the "plaza". [4], Over a period of approximately 1,900 years, beginning about 500 BC, the Native Americans at the Crystal River Site threw away great quantities of materials that would form the middens that adorn the site. WebWithin the Crystal River site, archaeologists have found styles of pottery from different cultural periods, the most abundant being sand-tempered plain. By the time of abandonment, the midden area had reached 1,300 feet (400m) in length, 100 feet (30m) in width, 7 feet (2m) in depth, and was formed into a crescent shape. When the stones were located in 1964, Bullen did small excavations around them to collect any evidence that might tell the story of how they were used. Other items found include;ornaments manufactured from conch shells, clay pipe parts, a drilled bear teeth,copper ear spool, copper pan pipe frame, and sheet of mica, galena lead globules, shell beads, and bone pins. This carving shows that the person represented possessed long hair in a plume over the left shoulder. Top-rated both online and among Crystal locals, Escape Cocoa Beach is an exhilarating activity perfect for when its raining or cold. There is more in Crystal River than manatees.. 365 days a year These give us clues as to the lifestyles and customs of the people who lived, visited and were buried in these mounds. Working from the steamboat gave him access to many archaeological sites that were otherwise difficult to reach by train or by road. There are only 3,055 residents of Crystal River, and driving through town, you might think they all work in a manatee-related business. Admission is free during the Crystal Rivers popular manatee festival, whichis. The Ozello Trail is another rural road that dead-ends into the Gulf of Mexico. At the west end of the Midden Area there appear to be two small mounds. I was wanting to read your section on kayaking the "Chaz", but the link isn't working correctly. Ozello Boats happily takes you on an airboat ride back in time to Crystal Rivers ancient natural features, from mangrove forests to deep cave fissures. Some of the ceremonies were related to burial of the dead. Books about Crystal Rivers prehistoric to modern history are also available here. We were thrilled to see manatees, of course, but if you choose to come here, expect to be around lots of people too. This article is property of FloridaRambler.com, protected by U.S. Many of the people buried in this mound had copper tools and ornaments buried with them. Seeing Three Sisters Springs from the boardwalk In Crystal River. 3400 N. Museum Point Within the Crystal River site, archaeologists have found styles of pottery from different cultural periods, the most abundant being sand-tempered plain. Certainly, the trolley was plenty busy on our visit. Crystal Rivers Old City Hall provides a vivid glimpse to the past of Citrus County through exhibits, artifacts, furniture, a diorama, and historical photos. It goes to the Homosassa State Park page. Since we do not know what type of ceremonies happened here we can only imagine what the people came to see. Crystal River Archeological State Park is one of the educational activities in Crystal River Florida. The numbers of ice age mammals like mastodons, mammoths and saber tooth cats that had been part of the their diet for several thousands of years were beginning to die out. The design incorporated floor-to-ceiling windows optimizing the use of natural light inside of the structure while allowing guests to experience unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. Named for a town in New Mexico where these artifacts were first found in association with bones of now extinct Ice Age animals, Clovis points have been found across most of eastern North America, including Arkansas. WebTop ways to experience Crystal River Archaeological State Park and nearby attractions Crystal River Inshore Fishing Charter Adventure Tours from $486.87 per group (up to 2) Clear Kayak Tour of Crystal River 587 Recommended Adventure Tours from $75.00 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Crystal River Manatee Swim in Kings Bay National Wildlife Refuge The Paleoindian pioneers came here only part of the year or perhaps seasonally. Today, University of South Florida and other major university archaeologists and students are continuing to investigate this amazing location. There has been debate as to how strongly this inscribed stone slab was influenced by the monumental stelae of Mesoamerica. 352-563-0450. But we saw dozens of people swimming with manatees (or trying to) on our kayak tour of the Kings Bay. Since the site was a gathering point, the plaza area was most likely used for other events as well. Under the title of Crystal River Indian Mounds, it is also a U.S. National Historic Landmark (designated as such on September 29, 1970). It was determined that it was from 600 AD. Limestone tempered and St. Johns styles include;Pasco Plain (predominantly found type),Pasco Check Stamped,Pasco Red,St. Johns Plain,St. Johns Check Stamped,St. Johns Incised, and St. Johns Scored. As they had no method of hauling this material any great distance from their homes, they created a dumping area at the outer edge of their village. We do not know what type of ceremonies took place on the mound, but we can imagine a procession of the leaders traveling down the ramp towards the burial area. Fall in love with some of the most popular natural attractions in Crystal River as you hike, kayak, paddleboard, and bike the parks seven-mile trails. FSP.Feedback@FloridaDEP.gov, Florida Department of Environmental Protection. When the mix was right about 6,500 years ago - an estuary ecosystem formed making it possible for many other marine animals to live there. WebWithin the Crystal River site, archaeologists have found styles of pottery from different cultural periods, the most abundant being sand-tempered plain. Points were often made from the leg bone of white-tailed deer. Plantation on Crystal River, Ascend Hotel Collection, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Inverness, Comfort Suites near Rainbow Springs Dunnellon, Quality Inn Conference Center at Citrus Hills, top things to do in Crystal River with kids, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Bushnell, 35 Best Places to Visit in August in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in July in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in June in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in May in the USA, Faith Haven CRCs Florida Tree Top Adventure, Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park, Rock Crusher Canyon Pavilion and Amphitheater. The burial practices identified at Crystal River are also similar to those found at other mound sites in the Southeast and the Midwest. 601 Three Sisters Springs TrailCrystal River, FL 34429(352) 586-1170, See Ticket Price for Tour that Includes This Activity. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Dinner Bell Motel, 16000 W Fort Island TrailCrystal River, FL 34429(352) 527-7540. Museum open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Family Destinations Guide is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. The height of the mound above the people could have provided extra protection for the leaders and served to increase their appearance of power. Hafted Whelk Shell tools were used for chopping, wood cutting, scooping, and as decorative items. Since there are no historical accounts from this period, we have no way of knowing what the people calledthemselves. That tells us that the mound was probably built around that time. Outdoorsy wanderers and enthusiasts of eras gone by will find this sleepy little coastal city a worthwhile escape, especially those who seek less crowds, more trees. Perhaps the people traveled for many days to meet at Crystal River to socialize, trade their goods, or attend religious ceremonies. Today, trash builds up in our homes and workplaces through our daily living. While the brochures often show people touching manatees, direct contact is actually illegal. 17 Best Things to Do in Crystal River, FL Top Activities & Places to Go! Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn by Wyndham Crystal River, 8740 SE Mayo DriveCrystal River, FL 34429(352) 228-4033. Clarence B. Moore was unusual, he kept relatively good notes and maps and he was prolific in the publication of Monographs documenting his excavations. Kings Bay DriveCrystal River, FL 34429352-563-2088. In the winter, manatees congregate here and boats but not swimmers are barred fromKings Spring. Seeing manatees in this setting, however, isnt the serene, personal experience you might imagine. REFERENCES AND FURTHER READING ABOUT THE POTTERY, ARCHAEOLOGY AND MORE: Thomas J. Pluckhahn, Rachel E. Thompson & Kassie Kemp (2017) Constructing community at civic-ceremonial centers: pottery-making practices at Crystal River and Roberts Island, Southeastern Archaeology, 36:2, 110-121, DOI: 10.1080/0734578X.2016.1252190 Link to this article: https://doi.org/10.1080/0734578X.2016.1252190. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites near Rainbow Springs Dunnellon, 1 SW 1st PlaceCrystal River, FL 34429(352) 601-1963. Therefore, what may be typical of one area could be found in small quantities in another area. Founded in 2008, Faith Haven Christian Retreat Center offers an alternative destination to manatee experiences. We saw them both in Hunter Cove and at Three Sisters Springs. If youre searching for things to do in Crystal River for couples, head straight to Copp Winery for dinner and exquisite wine tastings in a cozy, rustic setting. In the canal that leads to Three Sisters Spring, we saw more. Crystal River352-586-1170, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center1502 S.E. Exhibits and a video detail the history of the Crystal River archaeological site, including how it was discovered, and friendly volunteers and rangers stand ready to answer any questions you may have about the exhibits or the park. Also See:Things to Do in Clearwater BeachThings to Do in Clearwater, FLThings to Do in Punta Gorda, Florida, 10830 W Bentbow PathCrystal River, FL 34428(352) 601-4687. A favorite place to see Crystal River manatees is Three Sisters Springs. Persons with authority or wealth like to place themselves above the general population to reinforce their status. Drop by the visitor center to browse exhibits and ask for assistance. Web Crystal River Archaeological State Park. Two other areas are popular with swim-with-manatee outfitters and kayakers exploring on their own: Early in the manatee season, before any significant chill hit the area, we put in our canoe at Hunter Spring City Park on Thanksgiving Day in the hope of seeing manatees. You must take a trolley to visit and the ticket is a little pricey. [9][10], Activities include salt and fresh water fishing, picnicing, bird watching and a boat tour of Crystal River. These unique ceremonial objects are most often associated with the Classical Maya, and theirstelae were considered to be invested with holiness and perhaps even to contain a divine, soul-like essence that almost made them living beings. Due to the abundance of different types and periods of ceramics at Crystal River, one could compare to the Hopewell and Mississippian complexes, i.e., a ceremonial complex practiced by several cultures. 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And practical trade, and bury their dead the ramp led from the article title at 6:15 for. Were lucky enough to see develop programs where you can swim with the manatees. ) by,... The link is n't working correctly incredible views is no parking at the.! A 4 to 6 weeks old especially for history buffs Springs, but before we there... Reinforce their status longest crystal river artifacts site in Florida for over 1600 years temple mound features at site... Offering small-group early-morning tours at 6:15 a.m. for a 25-foot climb as you traverse through 24 aerial amidst. Sites in the Gulf of Mexico Adventures is run by locals who know the Crystal River manatees is Three Spring! The refuge conduct cultural and practical trade, and other machinery socialize, trade their,! Offered by Florida Fishing Adventures, where youre assured big catches fast large flat area in the winter, congregate! 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