Located in Penfield, Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, the Mohawk Site is a historic archaeological site that holds significance for understanding the prehistoric Native American culture of the region. The site is situated along the Moshannon Creek, a tributary of the West Branch Susquehanna River, in an area that was once inhabited by the Susquehannock people.
The Mohawk Site is believed to have been occupied by indigenous peoples for thousands of years, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Archaic Period (8000-1000 BCE) and continuing through the Woodland Period (1000 BCE-1600 CE). The site is named after the Mohawk people, who were part of the Iroquois Confederacy and likely traveled through the area during their journeys between the Great Lakes and the mid-Atlantic region.
Archaeological excavations at the Mohawk Site have revealed a wealth of artifacts, including pottery fragments, stone tools, and animal bones, which provide insights into the daily lives and cultural practices of the inhabitants. The site also features several mounds and earthworks, which may have served as burial grounds, ceremonial spaces, or defensive structures.
The Mohawk Site is a significant resource for researchers and historians studying the prehistoric Native American cultures of Pennsylvania. The site’s location along the Moshannon Creek would have provided access to a variety of natural resources, such as fish, game, and plant materials, which would have supported the community’s subsistence needs. Additionally, the site’s proximity to waterways and trade routes would have facilitated communication and interaction with other indigenous groups in the region.
Today, the Mohawk Site is a protected archaeological site, overseen by the Pennsylvania State Historic Preservation Office. Visitors to the site can learn about its history and significance through interpretive signage and guided tours. The site serves as a reminder of the enduring presence and resilience of the Native American peoples who once called this area home, and it offers a glimpse into the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the region.
