Siep Mound State Memorial

3 miles east of Bainbridge on St. Rt. 50 Seip Mound is now a State Part. This mound was explored by archaeologist of the Ohio State Museum. After exploration the mound was rebuilt and the area converted into a park in 1930. The central mound is 200 feet high, and 30 feet wide. More than likely the mound was built to cover the remains of a charnel house. Present are also postholes of a large ceremonial center estimated to be 38 ½ feet by 35 feet in size.

Some copper ornaments, pearls and preserved cloth from this site are on display at the Ohio Historical society. 99 skeletons were found in this area in the 1920’s. The was another large settlement and the site is located only 17 miles from Mound City. People could have visited each other by travelling in dugouts (log boats) on Paint creek.

A 3 inch clay head found in Seip Mound shows a skull flattened in infancy by being bound to a board, as well the custom. His mouth is open. If he could only tell us about his life. Perhaps he was actually buried in the large mound. It is written that the Hopewell people were called “long-heads,” egg-heads as they say today. Also found 2 men, 2 women, and 2 children. Surrounded by fresh water pearls, which had been pierced and probably sewn to their clothing or covered over them. This was called “The Great Pearl Burial” and indicates that these people were distinguished and honored by their fellowmen.

Below is a picture of Seip Mound



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