The tradition of observing solstice and equinox events at a site in southern Richland County will continue with recognition of the vernal equinox amongst the ancient effigy mounds at Frank’s Hill near Muscoda on March 20th. The Three Eagles Foundation will welcome people for the sunrise and sunset marking the official changing of the seasons. The east-west alignment of the mounds coincides sunrise and sunset at the spring equinox. Spring begins at 10:06 p.m. (CDT) the evening of Tuesday, March 19th, meaning the first sunrise and sunset of spring will be the following day, March 20th. Representatives of the Three Eagles Foundation will be on Hill East for both events, weather permitting.
Frank’s Hill will be open to the public for folks to visit the mounds on other days or to hike the new trail loop that circles Hill East. To visit the mounds, a short hike to the top of the hill is required which follows the former access road and is considered an easy to moderate walk of about 5 minutes from the gate. Guests are rewarded with a stunning view of the lower Wisconsin River valley. Participants should arrive by 6:30 a.m. for sunrise or 6:30 p.m. or earlier to observe the sunset. A campfire will follow sunset for discussion of the mounds and sharing of stories if burning conditions will allow. The site is located 2 miles west of Muscoda near the intersection of Hwy. 60 and Hwy. 193. Park well off the road on the shoulder and enter by the gate. Bring a chair or blanket and your own beverage or snack.
Frank’s Hill is on the National Register of Historic Places. A group of unique effigy mounds is situated on Hill East where the observances will occur. The mounds are thought to have been built a thousand or more years ago by the people of the Late Woodland Tradition, recognized by many as the ancestors of the modern Ho-Chunk Nation.
To learn more about the equinox event or for directions, contact Three Eagles Foundation Vice-President Mark Cupp at 739-2179 or visit the Foundation’s website or Facebook page.