Earthworks Expert to Discuss Ancient Ohio Sites August 13, 2009

Richard D. Shiels, associate professor of history at the Ohio State University–Newark, will discuss Ohio’s ancient earthworks at 7 p.m. Thursday, August 13, at the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian, 3001 Central Street, Evanston.

Shiels’ topic is also the subject of an innovative, hi-tech traveling exhibit, “Earthworks: Virtual Explorations of the Ancient Ohio Valley,” now on view at the Mitchell Museum through September 13.

Shiels is director of the Newark Earthworks Center, an interdisciplinary center of the Ohio State University for the study of ancient earthworks and Native American history and life. The award-winning college educator holds a doctorate from Boston University and a master’s degree from Yale University.

The Newark Earthworks comprised the largest set of geometric earthen enclosures in the world, according to information on the Ohio Historical Society Web site. Built by Native peoples of the Hopewell culture between 100 BC and AD 500, “this architectural wonder of ancient America was part cathedral, part cemetery, and part astronomical observatory.”

Today, only a few sections remain of a complex that once covered more than four square miles. These surviving segments are recognized as a National Historic Landmark. In 2006, the Ohio government designated the area “the official prehistoric monument of the state.”

“Ohio is loaded with treasure for archaeologists,” Shiels has written. “Not one but four ancient Ohio sites [including the Newark Earthworks] are likely to receive World Heritage status from UNESCO in the next few years.”

Admission to the talk is included with museum admission, which is $5 for adults, $2.50 for seniors, students, teachers (with valid school ID), and children. Maximum admission per family is $10. For information, phone (847) 475-1030. On the Net: http://www.mitchellmuseum.org.

Official Website: http://www.mitchellmuseum.org