Ancient Monuments of the Mississippi Valley: Smithsonian Contributions to Knowledge, Vol. I.

"Ancient Monuments of the Mississippi Valley" by E. G. Squier and E. H. Davis is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The work focuses on the extensive archaeological findings in the Mississippi River Valley, detailing the ancient earthworks, mounds, and various relics that indicate past civilizations. This book is intended to contribute to the understanding of the history and anthropology of early American cultures through systematic research and surveys conducted by the authors. The opening of the book presents a comprehensive introduction to the ancient monuments located within the Mississippi Valley. It outlines the various forms and geographical distributions of these remains, emphasizing their significance and the laborious efforts behind their construction. The authors provide a backdrop of previous observations and acknowledge the work of earlier explorers, preparing the reader for an in-depth exploration of the structures, such as the mounds and enclosures, and the artifacts associated with them. Furthermore, it highlights the need for continued research and preservation of these archaeological sites amidst the pressures of modernization and agriculture.