The Wandering Disciple

As you walk through this wooded trail at Indian Mound Park, you are walking through history. Beneath your feet is the Paulsen Point Midden which contains remnants of the Manasota Culture, native American inhabitants which lived along Lemon Bay from 1000 BC through 900 AD.  A midden is similar to a modern day landfill. It provides a look into life of the culture by preserving tools, pottery and animal bones helping archeologists learn more about life during the period.  The Paulsen Point Midden is preserved as part of Indian Mound Park in Englewood, Florida. The bayfront park provides a hiking trail through the midden and interpretive signs that tell the story of the Manasota Culture.  Taken: December 30, 2012 at Indian Mound Park (Englewood, FL)

A great blue heron takes flight from the boat docks at Indian Mound Park. The largest of the North American herons, the Great Blue Heron can be found along the edge of the water looking for food. Despite their large size, these birds are capable of flight but prefer wading along the waters edge. (Photo: December 30, 2012)

A seagull looks at its reflection in the still waters of Lemon Bay at Indian Mound Park.  This popular park on the bay is a hot spot for wading birds at low tide as the comb the shore looking for a meal.  (Photo: December 30, 2012)

A Great Blue Heron sits on the boat ramp at Indian Mound Park. Located on Lemon Bay, the park is the site of ancient Indian burial mounds. Today the park has preserved the mounds while providing the public with a boat ramp to access the water of Lemon Bay. Click on the photo to view more photos of Indian Mound Park . (Photo: December 30, 2012)