Serpent Mound stands as one of the state’s most well-known examples of the prolific earthen artwork of Ohio’s ancient cultures. It is, in fact, one of the largest effigy mounds in the world. On Saturday, Aug. 19, visitors will be given an opportunity to learn about these ancient peoples and their works during Archaeology Day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“The presentations and demonstrations will be full of information for anyone who is interested in Serpent Mound and prehistoric cultures of Southern Ohio,” said Serpent Mound Site Manager Tim Goodwin.
At 1 p.m. Dr. Brad Lepper will give a talk on what we know about Serpent Mound, including the latest research and interpretations. At 3p.m. Jeffrey Wilson will make a presentation on how the world’s largest effigy mound was saved by the ladies of Boston.
Many local artifact collectors will have their collections on display throughout the park for visitors to view. Demonstrations of Native American skills, such as flint knapping, ancient pottery making, fire starting, tool usage, and atlatl throwing will take place. One highlight of the day will be the opportunity for visitors to bring their own artifact finds in for identification.
Professional archaeologist Bill Pickard, from the Ohio History Connection, will be on site all day to help identify those stone tools or arrowheads you may have inherited or found in streams and farm fields.
For the kids there will be face painting and Native American games taking place throughout the day. Steve Free, an internationally acclaimed Native American singer, songwriter and recording artist, will be performing outside the visitor center from 1-3 p.m.
While at Serpent Mound, visitors may take advantage of seeing the museum, touring the mound and walking the 0.4-mile nature trail down below the cliff, upon which the effigy is located.
The event is free with an $8 per car parking fee. Arc of Appalachia members and OHC members can park for free.
To learn more about this event, visit http://arcofappalachia.org/archaeology-day/. For any questions you can call 937-365-1935 or email [email protected].
Submitted by Andrea Jaeger, Arc of Appalachia Preserve System.
