How did they function in the ancient world of Native Americans?
Shells from the Carolinas, copper from upper Michigan and obsidian from the Grand Canyon have been found here which demonstrate that ancient people came here from hundreds, even thousands of miles away. The breadth of passageways defined by the earthworks suggest that people came here in very large numbers. One portion of the complex which was separated from the Octagon and the Great Circle and was defined by an earthen elipse was used for burial. Other portions were probably used for ceremony. Tens of thousands could have gathered within either the Octagon or the Great Circle. It must have been important to come here; it must have been important to be here when the moon was in a certain place. Very likely people came here for important seasons or events; very likely people came here on pilgrimage for spiritual ceremonies.
