Indigenous Earthwork (Indian Mound) on Lake Mendota's North Shore

Indigenous Earthworks

We know pre-historic people greatly valued our Four Lakes (DeJope) area, because they built roughly 1,200 effigy (animal/spirit-shaped) and other mounds on the high grounds overlooking the lakes starting about 800 BC. While the vast majority was destroyed through development, you will  have an opportunity to take a two to three mile walk where you will see remaining conical, linear, and effigy mounds. The fascinating background of the indigenous people who lived, traded, hunted and fished the shores of Lake Mendota going back 10,000 years. By the end of your walk, you will have seen various styles of indigenous earthworks that are so often overlooked in our midst.

Optional Tour: Governors Island

You will have an opportunity to be introduced to Governors Island as it adjoins the Institute property.  If time permits, we will walk onto the Island for some discovery.