S A (' RE D E N L S U RE S. 81 



subsides into a low ridge towards the enclosed mound a b. A full view of the 

 entire group may be had from its summit. The mound just mentioned is 

 twenty-eight feet high, by one hundred and ten base ; it is truncated and surrounded 

 by a low circumvallation. There are several small circles, measuring from one 

 hundred and fifty to two hundred and fifty feet in diameter ; also a few mounds, in 

 the positions indicated in the plan. 



No one, after examining its details, would be apt to ascribe a military origin 

 to this group. The most reasonable conjecture respecting it is, that it was in 

 some way connected with the superstitions of the builders ; in what manner, of 

 course, it is impossible to determine. A thorough examination of the mounds 

 might throw some light on the question. At any rate, it is entirely unique in 

 many of its features, and furnishes an interesting study for the antiquary. 



PLATE XXVIII 



PORTSMOUTH WORKS GROUP C. 



This group is on the Kentucky shore, and principally occupies the third terrace, 

 or high level at the base of the hills bordering the valley. The ground is here 

 considerably broken. The northern portion of the work is somewhat lower 

 than the remainder, and a small bro«k cuts through the outer wall on the south. 

 This work is in many respects novel, and for this reason, as well as from the con- 

 nection in which it is found, is entitled to an attention not otherwise merited ; 

 for no person looking merely for what is striking from position, or imposing from 

 magnitude, m ould be apt to pay it a second visit. It consists of four concentric 

 circles, placed at irregular intervals in respect to each other, and cut at right angles 

 by four broad avenues, which conform in bearing very nearly to the cardinal points. 

 A large mound is placed in the centre ; it is truncated and terraced, and has a 

 graded way leading to its summit. A reference to the plan and sections will 

 exhibit in one view the dimensions and general aspect of the work, obviating the 

 necessity of a detailed description. 



The mound in the centre, at first glance, would be taken for a natural elevation ; 

 and it is possible that it is a detached spur of a hill, modified and perhaps enlarged 

 by art. A hillock in such a position is, however, a circumstance of very rare 

 occurrence. From the level summit of this mound, a complete view of every part 

 of the surrounding work is commanded. Were it not for the obstructing forests, 

 it is believed the eye might obtain, from this position, a view of the river and 

 intermediate plain, as also of the works beyond, and several miles distant. On 

 the supposition that this work was in some way connected with the religious rites 

 and ceremonies of the builders, this mound must have aflforded a most conspicuous 

 place for their observance and celebration. And it is easy, while standing on its 



11 



