In 1948, Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site became Florida’s first state archeological site. Donated by Karl and Madira Bickel, they believed that the history of this area would be better preserved by the state.
The ten-acre site is home to the Temple Mound and the Prine Burial Mound. Research has shown that the mounds were used throughout at least three phases of Native American culture. The different periods can be seen in the layers of the mounds. They are comprised of bones, pottery and other fossils, each from a distinct time period.
The mounds are believed to have been built by the Tocobaga Native Americans who lived in the area. The mounds are thought to be of ceremonial or religious importance. The temple Mound is the larger of the two mounds, is 20 feet high and covered by lush vegetation and trees. The smaller of the two, the Prine Burial Mound is only about 40 feet wide and two feet high. Most of this mound was destroyed due to human development.
There is an incredible amount of history at this site and thus why it has been marked as protected for so many years. With more research, more can be discovered about the people that lived here many centuries ago. Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Florida.
