Saint Louis University students, faculty, volunteers, and visiting students from universities nationwide participated in archaeological excavations at Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Collinsville, Illinois, this summer. The team spent four weeks working on the western periphery of Cahokia Mounds, uncovering various artifacts and gaining insights into the prehistoric American Indian chiefdom that thrived there between A.D. 1050 and 1350.
Mary Vermilion, Ph.D., associate professor of sociology and anthropology at Saint Louis University, explained the significance of the site: “This area of the site is intriguing because we think that it may be a civic ceremonial area attached to the chiefdom.” She noted that previous discoveries included microdrills and a sweat lodge. “Cahokia is an incredible investigative tool for not just what happened in prehistory, but how that applies to today’s world,” she added.
Under Vermilion’s supervision, students meticulously documented their findings during the excavation process. Artifacts such as drill bits, microdrills, pottery sherds, and soil samples indicating multiple structures were found. These items were photographed, logged, cleaned, and recorded in the lab for further analysis.
Brittany Murray, a former SLU archaeology student who participated in the 2011 excavations, returned this summer. Reflecting on her experience, she said: “Ever since I was here in 2011, I have just loved being in the dirt… It’s fascinating and fun.” Murray praised SLU for its commitment to providing research opportunities.
Following each dig session at Cahokia Mounds, students spend two weeks cleaning and cataloging recovered artifacts. This process contributes to a growing body of knowledge about the site shared with research centers worldwide.
Vermilion emphasized the importance of careful record-keeping: “I always tell students ‘When you dig it, you destroy it’,” highlighting that precise documentation is crucial once an artifact is removed from its context.
The ongoing work at Cahokia Mounds provides valuable learning experiences for students while enhancing understanding of pre-colonial history within both archaeological circles and the broader St. Louis community.
