After 10 years of bringing citizens closer to the heavens, Town Creek Indian Mound is inviting all to commemorate its first-ever astronomy program hosted 10 years ago. Join in this milestone "Town Creek Under the Stars" program Saturday, Feb. 27, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Winter favorite constellations Aries, Taurus, Gemini and Orion will be on display at one of the last great dark sky sites in the Piedmont.
"It all started with an idea to share an interest in astronomy with the public," says Site Manager Rich Thompson, "that has now become one of our most popular events."
Town Creek Indian Mound was also featured in "Our State" magazine's "10 Places to Enjoy the North Carolina Night Sky."
Other celestial objects, such as nebulas, clusters and galaxies can also be viewed. Interested stargazers are encouraged to dress for the weather. The staff will have a scope available to loan. Advanced registration is requested by calling or emailing the site. This event is free and open to the public but donations are welcome. Please contact the site at 910-439-6802 or at towncreek@ncdcr.gov to register.
For more than 1,000 years, American Indians farmed lands later known as North Carolina. Around A.D. 1000, a new cultural tradition arrived in the Pee Dee River Valley. Throughout Georgia, South Carolina, eastern Tennessee, and western and southern Piedmont North Carolina, inhabitants built earthen mounds for their leaders, engaged in widespread trade, supported craftspeople and celebrated a new religion.
The mission of Town Creek is to interpret the history of the American Indians who once lived here. The visitor center features interpretive exhibits and audiovisual displays. A national historic landmark, Town Creek Indian Mound State Historic Site is North Carolina's only state historic site dedicated to American Indian heritage. Tour groups are welcome and encouraged. The site is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. It is closed to the public Mondays and most major holidays.
The historic site is within the Division of State Historic Sites and located at 509 Town Creek Mound Road, Mount Gilead. For more information on Town Creek, please visit www.towncreekindianmound.com.