Town Creek "Under the Stars" will bid farewell to long winter nights Saturday, March 12, 6:30 to 10 p.m. at Town Creek Indian Mound State Historic Site. Participants will gaze up at the constellations Taurus, Gemini, Orion and Cancer as well as get a chance to view the gas giant Jupiter and its moons.
"As we prepare to 'spring forward' for Daylight Savings Time," says Site Manager Rich Thompson, "why not start your night out a little early and do some sky watching with us?"
Other celestial objects, such as nebulas, clusters and galaxies will be available for viewing as well. Interested stargazers are encouraged to dress for the weather. The staff will have a scope available if you do not have one. Advanced registration is requested by calling or emailing the site. The event is free and open to the public but donations are welcome. Please contact the site at 910-439-6802 or 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, visit www.towncreekindianmound.com.