Scant evidence that 'wood overuse' at Cahokia caused collapse

[Atticus]

1. Cahokia is a fascinating place to visit. The modern building south of the main mound--- there are

several---houses a wonderful display of genuine artifacts, including tools and weapons of great variety.

The large mound shown in the photos was constructed by slaves lugging woven baskets of earth to the site from "borrow pits". All of the sides were built with virtually impermeable clay while the interior was filled with "absorbent" topsoil. The large structure therefore could retain subterranean water from rainfalls and there was actually a water well dug into the man-made mound to provide water for the elites who lived atop it.

I know southern illinois is not a common tourist destination but, if you are passing through, you won't regret spending a couple of hours here.