Effigies

Effigies are monuments of geometric patterns laid out by stone. Some are unexplainable but others such as human or animal figures tell of personal or tribal tragedies. Effigies are found on high open land and some tipi rings are marked nearby. Artifacts of the Hann, Pelican Lake and Besant cultures are found in the area, giving evidence of human occupation at 3000 and 2000 years ago. It is difficult to determine which specific peoples laid out the effigies. The dry climate of the Big Muddy area maintains a tough prairie sod, thus making an ideal background for viewing and preserving boulder effigies.

Turtle Effigy
The Turtle effigy is much smaller than the others in the area. It is 30 feet in length and 20 feet in width. The head overlooks the broad coulee and creek found below.

Buffalo Effigy
The buffalo effigy is the only known one of its kind in Canada, and is 34 feet in length. It is a mythical representation of an animal which was the staff of life to the Plains First Nations. From the buffalo men would obtain food, shelter and clothing as well as many tools. The Buffalo effigy is said to be a burial site of the chief of the tribe that was settled in the Big Muddy.

Ceremonial Circles
The Ceremonial Circle is shaped like a large kidney made out of stones. It is 80 feet in length and 60 feet in width. There are two doorways and was supposedly used for utilitarian purposes. There are many tipi rings found nearby on the surrounding hills.