Dig into history at the Prehistoric Indian Village

More than 1,000 years ago, a thriving village existed along the shores of what is now Lake Mitchell. Corn brought from Mexico 2,500 years earlier grew near the finger bluff, providing sustenance for the 200 and 500 people that also lived on wild game provided by designated hunters. It was a far cry from today’s busy life of buzzing phones and connected…well, everything. And even though the simple and unique culture disappeared centuries ago, a plethora of clues keep their traditions alive at the Prehistoric Indian Village in Mitchell. 

The varied remnants of a long-gone culture continue to fascinate archeologists and visitors alike at the Prehistoric Indian Village. The campus—located on the edge of Mitchell only five minutes away from the World’s Only Corn Palace—is the home of the Archeodome Interpretive Center, a giant dome that covers the active dig area. This is where the folks often gather to watch as archaeologists unearth bones, arrowheads, pottery, and other amazing relics. The dig site is the only active archeological site in South Dakota that’s open to the public. While visitors aren’t allowed to dig for themselves, they can participate in the discovery by helping wash and sort artifacts. Digging doesn’t happen every day at the site, but those who visit during the summer or during special events are guaranteed to see excavation in action as well as examine exhibits that feature discoveries straight from the site. 

Near the Archeodome, the Boehnen Memorial Museum offers visitors an in-depth look at how the area’s former residents lived. The museum contains a full-sized reproduction of an earthen lodge, allowing the curious to enter the type of dwelling—experts estimate there are between 70 and 80 earthen lodges buried at the site—that former residents once called home. The museum also contains a full bison skeleton as well as informative exhibits, an audio/visual technology center, student library, and gift shop. Guided tours are offered throughout the day at no extra cost.

The village’s special events offer unique opportunities to those looking to immerse themselves in Native American culture. The Archaeology Awareness Days celebration is the biggest event of the year. Each summer, archaeologists, primitive technologists, and Native American cultural presenters come from across the globe to share their skills and passion. Visitors can watch a flint knapper transform a piece of flint or jasper into a projectile point. You can also learn about (and then play some) ancient Native American games like atlatl (a spear-throwing game) and watch presentations on dancing, drumming, or storytelling.