There are 424 known and recorded prehistoric mounds in West Virginia. Most are constructed of earth or stone or a combination of both. The majority of mounds in the state are concentrated along the major river valleys, such as the Kanawha, Ohio and Potomac. Many mound groups cluster near South Charleston, Moundsville and Moorefield. A significant number of rock mounds are found along ridgetops in Nicholas County.
Archeologists divide prehistory in the eastern United States into several cultural periods.
Most of the evidence we have concerning the Adena resulted from mound excavations. Adena mounds were generally constructed in stages, with log crypts or tombs. Excavations conducted at Cotiga Mound in Mingo County identified at least six stages of mound construction. Circular, paired-post structures are often identified underneath mounds. Grave goods from Adena Period mounds include mica, copper bracelets and platform pipes, inscribed tables and shell beads.