Fort Hill Earthwork and Nature Preserve
Fort Hill State Memorial
Hopewell Middle Woodland 100–400 CE·Hopewell tradition·🇺🇸 Ohio, United States
About
About Fort Hill Earthwork and Nature Preserve
14.6 ha ridgetop walled with 2.4 km stone-faced embankment 1.5–3 m high, 33 gateways, enclosing plateau with burial mound. Ceremonial not defensive.
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Why it mattersArchaeological landmark for Hopewell tradition in Ohio; type-site demonstrating hilltop ceremonial enclosure and regional exchange.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Function and chronology of Fort Hill Earthwork and Nature Preserve within Hopewell Middle Woodland 100–400 CE
- 02Relationship to neighboring polities
Theories
- 01Hopewell tradition ceremonial center for hilltop ceremonial enclosure
- 02Regional capital controlling trade and tribute network
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c.100–400 CE
- Period
- Hopewell Middle Woodland 100–400 CE
- Culture
- Hopewell tradition
- Purpose
- Hilltop ceremonial enclosure
- Rediscovered
- 1846 Squier & Davis
- Excavation
- Partially excavated
c.100–400 CE
Fort Hill Earthwork and Nature Preserve construction phase
20th century
Modern excavations
On the ground
Structures & features
39.1194° N · 83.3642° W · 320 m · 2 mapped features
Fort Hill Earthwork and Nature Preserve central feature
featureMain architectural feature
39.1194° N · 83.3642° WFort Hill Earthwork and Nature Preserve secondary sector
sectorSecondary sector
39.1204° N · 83.3632° W
Gallery