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Hopewell Culture National Historical ParkTheme(s): Native American | |
Description:
From about 200 BC to AD 500, the Ohio River Valley was a focal point of the prehistoric Hopewell culture. The term Hopewell describes a broad network of beliefs and practices among different Native American groups over a large portion of eastern North America. The culture is characterized by the construction of enclosures made of earthen walls, often built in geometric patterns, and mounds of various shapes. Visible remnants of Hopewell culture are concentrated in the Scioto River valley near present-day Chillicothe, Ohio. The most striking Hopewell sites contain earthworks in the form of squares, circles, and other geometric shapes. Many of these sites were built to a monumental scale, with earthen walls up to 12 feet high outlining geometric figures more than 1000 feet across. Conical and loaf-shaped earthen mounds up to 30 feet high are often found in association with the geometric earthworks.
The park contains nationally significant archeological resources including large earthwork and mound complexes that provide an insight into the social, ceremonial, political, and economic life of the Hopewell people. The park visitor center features museum exhibits, an orientation film, book sales area, and self-guided and guided (summer only) tours.
Designations:
National Monument (March 2, 1923)
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park (May 27, 1992)
Accessibility:
The Visitor Center, most interpretive trails, and other activities are handicapped accessible.
Getting Around:
No bicycles allowed on the intepretive trails at the Mound City Group.
Activites:
Educational Programs | Hiking | Wildlife Viewing | Bird Watching | Nature Walks | And more.
Facilities:
Visitor_Centers | Picnic Areas | Museum Exhibits | Tours & Guided Activities | And more.
Directions to Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
Plane:
The closest major airport is the Columbus International Airport located 50 miles north of the park.
Car:
Chillicothe is located in southcentral Ohio. The Mound City Group Visitor Center is located two miles north of the intersection of US 35 and SR 104.
Public Transportation
No public transportation available.
Attractions:
Ross Chillicothe Convention and Visitors Bureau
Phone:(800) 413-4118
Adena State Memorial
Ohio Historical Society
Phone:(614)297-2300
Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama
Phone:(740) 775-4100
Ross County Historical Society
Nearby Parks:
Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park (80 miles)
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