Madira Bickel Mound State Archeological Site

The Madira Bickel Mound State Archeological Site is an archaeological site on Terra Ceia Island in northwestern Palmetto, Florida, United States. It is located on Bayshore Drive, west of U.S. 19, a mile south of I-275. On August 12, 1970, it was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. It is also a Florida State Park.

The 10 acre site was the first Native American location in Florida to receive the designation of State Archaeological Site.

History

Pre-Columbian

Occupation reaches back 2,000 years, and across three distinct periods: Manasota, Weedon Island, and Safety Harbor. It is believed to have been of great ceremonial importance to the Tocobaga Indians of the surrounding area.

Recent

The site is named for Madira Bickel of Sarasota. She and her husband, Karl, purchased the land around the main mound, donating it to the state in 1948.

The mound

The point of greatest interest at the site is the high temple/ceremonial mound. Composed of shells (obtained from a midden to the west), sand, and detritus, the mound's base is 100 by . To more easily reach the top, the Tocobaga constructed a curved wide ramp on the western side.

Recreational Activities

The park is still being developed, and the only amenities available are picnic tables. Nature trails and information kiosks are in the works.

Admission and Hours

There are no entrance fees.

External links

• Madira Bickel Mound State Archeological Site at Florida State Parks
• Manatee County listings at National Register of Historic Places
• Manatee County listings at Florida's Office of Cultural and Historical Programs
• Florida: Terra Ceia & Madira Bickel Mounds at LostWorlds.org - an Interactive Museum of Native American history
• Madira Bickel Temple Mound Site at School District of Manatee County
• Madira Bickel Mound Photograph Gallery at Florida Center for Instructional Technology