The National Park Service and the Friends of the Lucy Hayes Heritage Center invite you to a free presentation about Ross County’s ancient earthworks and their recent nomination for listing as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Hopewell presentations & MAPS on display.

Long before it was the first capital of Ohio, the Chillicothe area was even more important as the spiritual center of eastern North America for a mysterious ancient culture. Two thousand years ago, Americans Indians of the Hopewell culture built an astounding number of giant geometric earthworks here along the Scioto River and its tributaries. The size and complexity of these ceremonial sites baffle scientists to this day.

Now that these earthworks have been nominated for listing as UNESCO World Heritage sites, their potential as valuable heritage tourism assets for the region has renewed interest in earthwork conservation in Ohio.  Also presenting will be Nancy Stranahan, the director of the Arc of Appalachia Preserve System, which played a major role in the recent preservation of Junction Group, soon to open as a new public park. She will talk about what lies in store for the new Junction Earthworks Park.

The event is free of charge and is co-sponsored by the Friends of Lucy Hayes Heritage Center, which will be offering free house tours, snacks and seasonal music with Bob Hess on piano until 1:30 pm. Call 740-774-1126 or visit www.nps.gov/hocu/planyourvisit/special-events.htm for more information.