Know The Five Fun Facts About The Midwest

5 Interesting facts about the Midwest region of the United States you never knew before

Curious to know the interesting facts about the Midwest region of the United States? You are at the right place. Sure, you will be surprised at the end. The Midwest region is often overlooked but brimming with fascinating history, culture, and natural wonders.

The history of these states is packed with amazing truths and wild anecdotes, providing endless opportunities to learn fresh and fascinating facts. Here are some fun facts about the Midwest. We will make you fall even more in love with this stunning and fantastic place.

The Ice Age's Secret: Glacial Grooves on Kelleys Island

Let's start our exploration of Interesting facts about the Midwest region of the United States from the heart of Lake Erie, Kelleys Island. It claims a remarkable geological wonder that few people know about the Glacial Grooves.

These grooves are the largest and most accessible example of global glacial striations. Formed during the last Ice Age, these massive grooves were carved into the limestone bedrock by the slow, grinding movement of glaciers over 18,000 years ago.

Stretching over 400 feet long, 35 feet wide, and up to 10 feet deep, the grooves offer a window into Earth's distant past.

The Ohio Serpent Mound

The Midwest has many ancient mysteries, but none is as mysterious as the Serpent Mound in Adams County, Ohio. This ancient statue mound stretches nearly 1,400 feet. It represents a snake with a coiled tail and open jaws, seemingly devouring an egg.

Built by indigenous peoples between 800 BCE and 400 CE, the mound's true purpose remains a subject of debate. Some people believe it functioned as an astronomical calendar, with the serpent's coils aligning with the solstices and equinoxes.

Others see it as a ceremonial site linked to fertility or spirituality. Regardless of its original purpose, the Serpent Mound is a captivating artifact of ancient ingenuity. It offers a glimpse into the cultured understanding of astronomy possessed by the region's early inhabitants.

Cahokia Mounds: America's Forgotten Metropolis

Long before European settlers arrived, the Midwest was home to Cahokia. It was the biggest pre-Columbian city north of Mexico. Cahokia is located in modern-day Illinois near the Mississippi River. It existed between 1050 and 1350 CE and was ruled by the Mississippian culture.

At its peak, Cahokia had an estimated population of 20,000, rivaling contemporary European cities in size and complexity. The site features over 120 mounds. Monks Mound is the largest, standing at 100 feet tall and covering 14 acres.

Cahokia was an urbane society with complex social, political, and religious structures. These are all evidenced by the grand plaza, astronomical observatories, and intricate artwork found at the site. Despite its historical significance, Cahokia remains relatively unknown. This makes it one of America's hidden archaeological treasures.

The Underground City of Kansas City

Beneath the bustling streets of Kansas City, Missouri, lies a subterranean world known as the SubTropolis. This vast underground complex was created from excavated limestone mines. It spans over 55 million square feet. This is one of the world's largest underground business complex.

SubTropolis holds various businesses, including warehouses, offices, and storage facilities. These benefits are derived from the natural insulation provided by limestone. It maintains a constant temperature of around 65 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.

This unique environment is ideal for preserving perishable goods and valuable items. The underground city is evidence of human ingenuity. It transforms a former mining site into a thriving business hub while utilizing the natural properties of the Earth.

The Lake That Disappeared: Wisconsin's Lake Delton

In June 2008, a rare and dramatic event outspread in Lake Delton, when the entire lake disappeared overnight. You couldn't believe it, right? Following heavy rainfall, a dam section holding back Lake Delton gave way. This caused the water to surge into the nearby Wisconsin River.

Within hours, the lake, spanning 267 acres, had drained completely. And it left behind a barren, muddy landscape. This sudden disappearance shocked residents and visitors. The Lake Delton was a popular entertainment destination.

Efforts to restore the lake began immediately. Within a year, it was refilled and reopened to the public. The event serves as a reminder of nature's unpredictability and the instability of man-made structures.

Summing up

So, what do you think? Pretty amazing, right? Every nook and corner in the Midwest region of the United States tells a story. So next time you are off to the Midwest of the US, remember that beneath its humble exterior lies a treasure trove of hidden gems.