Where in Ohio is Janice?: June 2008

Fort Ancient
Oregania, Ohio

At the Fort Ancient site are earthworks built more than 2000 years ago. Theories of the purpose of the site are still being discussed today, but the white men coming upon it in the 1700’s assumed they were built as embankments for defensive purposes. Thus it was named with the word “Fort.” Subsequent study provides the theory the area was probably used for religious purposes. This is backed by how the earthworks line up with solstice events.

The museum provides an excellent overview of the timeline of the different Indian cultures in the area over the past 15,000 thousand years. At the entry to the museum is a handout where children can take a Scavenger Hunt. By asking the children to find certain answers in the exhibits, they can solve a puzzle at the end. Even as an adult, I found the scavenger hunt an interesting way to look closer at the information the exhibits gave. This provided an interactive feel to viewing the museum rather than just walking through and glancing at the exhibits.

The museum contains dioramas, display cases of artifacts and videos of archeological interest. Children and adults will find this interesting. Flowing through the museum requires reading so preschool children may be bored with too much time spent in the museum itself.

After the visit to the museum, the family can enjoy the hiking at their own pace. At the beginning of the trails are mailboxes containing trail maps identifying native plants and trees and keeping visitors on the correct trail. Because the earthworks are a protected archaeological site, no climbing or going off the path is allowed. The trails are not paved or graveled but they are fairly level and composed of dirt and grass with an occasional footbridge or steps. There is no strenuous hiking but a couple of incline/declines are possible. With the longest trail at 1 mile, these trails are good nature walks for taking all age children.

People with an interest in archeology and prehistoric Native American cultures will get the most from the visit. It is also a great place for families to come and have a fun picnic while learning some of their Ohio history.

Upcoming Exhibits and Events –

July 26, 2008 – Archeology Day – Families will have the opportunity to learn the tools used in Archaeological digs. There will also be a fossil and artifact identification clinic for those wishing to bring their own rocks and learn how examine them. For more information call the site at 513.932.4421 or 800.283.8904.

Age Appropriateness –
Young Children – medium
School Age Children –high
Teens –medium-high
Adults –medium-high
Senior Friendly –medium-high

Physical vs. Mental –
The site has a nice mix. The museum provides a learning experience of Native American life in the area. The hiking trails provide the opportunity for viewing the landscape. None of the hiking is strenuous so a leisurely hike is appropriate.

Time to Allow for Visit –
Allow 2 hours for your visit with 45 minutes touring the museum and an hour walking along the trails.

Additional Information –
Gift Shop – yes
Food – no

Picnic – yes -- large picnic area including a covered pavilion and grills
Multilingual – no

Approximate Travel Times –
Cincinnati – 1/2 hour
Cleveland – 4 hours
Columbus – 1 1/2 hours

Handicapped Accessibility –
The museum is completely wheelchair accessible, but the hiking trails are not paved and contain a few steps. The trails are fairly level with benches spaced along the trail for those who need a rest.

Volunteer Opportunities –
If interested in finding out about volunteer opportunities please call the site coordinater, Jack Blosser at 513-932-4421 or 1-800-283-8904 (toll free).