Snake Alley and Malchow Mounds
Exploring Snake Alley and Malchow Mounds in Burlington, Iowa
Mike and Betty LaFontaine, accompanied by Roger and Katie Cook, embarked on a captivating journey to Burlington, Iowa's Snake Alley, and the Malchow Mounds State Preserve. They delved into the fascinating history of the ancient inhabitants who once graced the land.
Snake Alley, designated "Unbelievably Crooked" by Ripley's Believe It or Not, stands as Burlington's iconic landmark. Built in 1894 to connect residential and commercial districts, this historic site features five half-curves and two quarter-curves made of limestone and blue clay bricks. The constantly changing slant and a 21% grade over 275 feet make it a unique architectural marvel.
Malchow Mounds State Preserve is a remarkable site boasting a prehistoric cemetery adorned with a mesmerizing array of fifty-eight conical and linear mounds. These are believed to have been meticulously constructed during the Middle Woodland period (100 B.C.–A.D. 300). Nestled within a picturesque 6-acre expanse, the preserve is strategically positioned one mile north of Kingston and thirteen miles north of Burlington, embraced by the scenic beauty of Des Moines County.
The mounds, meticulously surveyed in 1934 by the renowned Iowa archaeologist Ellison Orr and reevaluated in 1968 by esteemed scholars from the University of Iowa, were bequeathed to the state in 1974 by the generous Charles A. Poisel. Subsequently, this archaeological treasure was officially dedicated as a state preserve in 1978. The very essence of the area is encapsulated by the name Malchow, paying homage to its previous owner, Lewis H. Malchow.
As the explorers traversed the 6-acre preserve, a verdant landscape of grasses and flowers unfolded before their eyes, meticulously preserved to maintain its intrinsic beauty. Nature's symphony played out as bees gracefully danced from flower to flower, diligently collecting nectar, adding a delightful yet somewhat terrifying touch to the serene atmosphere.
While the historical knowledge surrounding these burial mounds remains elusive, the experience of walking in the footsteps of the ancients proved to be nothing short of fascinating. A sense of sacredness permeated the air, allowing the visitors to connect with the profound reverence embedded in these ancient burial grounds.
Considering the numerous archaeological mounds and artifacts in every direction from Montrose, Iowa, it's clear that this area held great significance in a bygone era. From Malchow Mounds State Preserve, Toolsboro Mounds, and Zelph’s Mound to Little Mound Cemetery, the Buena Vista Mound complex, the five plus miles of defensive berms surrounding Montrose and the ancient burial mounds north of Nauvoo, the landscape is dotted with historical treasures. The people who once lived here displayed sophistication and a profound understanding of their environment, leaving a compelling history yet to be fully explored.
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