Topped off with a temple, a chief's residence, or a governmental building, this mound served as the social and ceremonial focus of the community. The summit offered an unparalleled view of religious ceremonies, dances, games, and everyday actives on the plaza. The whole community, plus residents from nearby villages, gathered to celebrate the corn festival-the beginning of a new year-with nesting, rituals, and dancing. Crowds watched and bet on teams competing at games of chunky and stickball. And on other days, townspeople went to the plaza to catch up on the news, to see what was happening and to be seen.
Stickball
Residents of Shiloh and neighboring towns competed in games of stickball, which was similar to lacrosse. The games were often rough and violent, resulting in serious injuries. Spectators wagered their clothing and valuables, sometimes everything they owned.
Game of Chunkey
Constants rolled a chunkey stone across an open field and threw spears at the spot where they thought it would stop rolling.
Shiloh Indian Mounds National Historic Landmark
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