Prehistory

The Woodland Period

The Woodland Period followed the Archaic Period and lasted from approximately 2500 years ago to historic times. The Woodland Indians continued to make extensive use of riverine resources such as fish, deer, rabbits, squirrels, and other small mammals as well as birds, amphibians, and reptiles. A major change in hunting strategy occurred during the time of the Woodland Indians with the introduction of the bow and arrow around 700 AD. This change is noted in the stone artifacts that are found in the area as small projectile points, true arrowheads, become abundant.

Other major changes took place during the time of the Woodland Indians. Many different types of pottery were manufactured as a greater dependence upon cultivation developed. Many different types of vessels were made for storage and for cooking. The Woodland Indians became more and more sedentary (remaining in one place) with the continued dependence upon agricultural crops—especially corn or maize. Permanent sites or villages were common, and some boasted much larger populations than previously. Many different cultures with distinct pottery, stone tools, mound building, and other characteristics evolved during the Woodland Period in Louisiana. Some of the cultures included Tchefuncte, Marksville, Troyville, Coles Creek, Caddo, and Mississippian. The Woodland Period ended as the Europeans began to explore and settle the area. By late in the Woodland Period, many different historic tribes were present in north Louisiana.