Cahokia Mounds Museum Society

The Cahokia Mounds Museum Society is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1976 to support the Cahokia State Historic Site. Our mission is to promote for the public benefit the educational and scientific aspects of the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site and associated archaeological sphere, and to support activities that are calculated to preserve, develop or interpret Cahokia Mounds.

Since 1976, CMMS has provided support by reacquiring and protecting portions of this prehistoric city, conducting archaeological research, educating the public with programs such as Kids Day, lecture series, nature/culture hikes, equinox and solstice sunrise observances, and supporting the arts through Indian Market Days and Performing Arts Series.

Programs sponsored by the Society consistently attract thousands of new visitors each year because themes and activities are geared toward audiences ranging in age from pre-school to elderly. A firm focus on school and family programs provides a cyclical benefit, as children from school groups encourage parents to visit and vice versa.

One current goal of the CMMS is to pursue land acquisition throughout the area to ultimately protect and preserve more of this State Historic and World Heritage site and to showcase the original acreage of this ancient city. Some of this land is home to vacant buildings and lots and/or is held by landowners that are unable or unwilling to maintain them. Once CMMS purchases property, it is placed under the protection of the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency.

Other goals of CMMS include increasing attendance to the site, reaching out to new audiences, and increasing public awareness. Notable CMMS achievements include publishing the award-winning book, Cahokia – City of the Sun and the six-time award-winning video, Cahokia Mounds – Ancient Metropolis.

The Society is currently involved in a special effort to acquire mounds from private owners and expand the site boundaries by reclaiming significant archaeological property from subdivisions adjacent to the site.

Thank you for your support of this World Heritage Site. Contact us at 618-344-9221 with questions.