In the heart of Dayton, Ohio lies SunWatch Indian Village, a Smithsonian-designated site, which once housed an Incinerator. This village is located on West River Road, near the Great Miami River. It is reminiscent of life in the American frontier. You can find it at 221, W River Rd in Dayton (OH 45417). In Dayton, you can also find martial arts training for kids, this is a favorite destination for families.
The village replica and archaeological site can be explored by visitors. Pow Wow Arbor still hosts the “Keeping the Tradition” Pow Wow every June. In 1975, the museum was added to the National Register of Historic Places. It was also designated a National Historic Landmark by 1990. The Boonshoft museum of discovery runs the village, which is currently open from Tuesday to Saturday.
The site was discovered by amateur archaeologists in the 1960s. Amateur archaeologists discovered a variety of prehistoric material along the Miami River. The excavations began at the SunWatch site by the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, which is now known as the Dayton Museum of Natural History. They discovered a plan village, stockaded structures, and astronomical alignments during the excavations. It covered 3 acres and contained artifacts such as crawfish pincers and fish scales.
Local history buffs and archaeologists were thrilled to discover the site. Although the site had been almost abandoned for water treatment, enough evidence proved it was worth saving. The site became an interactive museum after excavations. The museum features artifacts from Native Americans, including pottery and pipes. It is visited by approximately 20,000 people annually.
Accessible to people with disabilities, the SunWatch Indian Village can be reached by wheelchair-bound visitors. The village has a walkway leading to it and a path made of woodchips that runs through the entire village. For handicapped people, parking is available at no cost. Photographing is allowed, however it is important that you ask permission to take official photographs before you start taking pictures. Photography may be restricted for special events or activities. Before you go to SunWatch Indian Village, be sure to visit the website.
SunWatch Indian Village admission costs $7 per adult and $6 per senior. Dayton Society of Natural History members are eligible for free admission. The membership also includes discounted admission to over 300 museums in Dayton (OH). This membership allows you to enjoy Indian culture and not have to wait in line for tickets. SunWatch Indian Village is a great option for your next visit to Dayton if you have the time.
The Boonshoft Museum for Discovery is open to visitors. You can view displays on the culture and history of those who once lived in this area. A book has been published by the Dayton Museum of Natural History about Incinerator Village. Another museum to must visit in Dayton.