Park A Day: Hampson Archeological Museum State Park

From July 10th to August 10th, 2007, the University of Arkansas’ Center for Advanced Spatial Technology started a project to scan select ceramic and lithics from the Hampson Archeological Museum State Park. That may sound a bit academic, but the park is actually pretty exciting to an Arkansas history buff. The pottery being scanned has actually been deemed superior to most North American archeological finds. I never knew we had such talent in early Arkansas!

The park is not a working archaeological dig like Parkin, but a museum that exhibits artifacts from the Nodena site. The area was once a 15-acre palisaded village. The Nodena were the native people in this area between 1400 to 1650 A.D. The name is synonymous with a unique type of stone point and pottery type that the people created. They are most famous for human depictions created in clay, however they were also excellent farmers, hunters and fishermen. These areas of daily life are also featured in the museum.

Many pottery pieces are on display alongside other artifacts and photographs. The museum guides and signage can help you learn more about Arkansas history.

The park also has picnic sites and playgrounds.

Located in Wilson, AR. Admission is just $2.50. The Arkansas State Parks site has an excellent and informative article about the people and the founding of the museum.

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