Hidden Treasures of Ancient Ohio: Mounds, Migmatite, and a Forgotten Heritage
The regions of Northeastern Ohio are rich with mysteries that whisper of a past civilization that thrived during the Glacial Age. Far from the bustling metropolises, the End Moraine serves as a reminder of ancient times. These narratives come to light with meticulous archaeological research revealing lost treasures like the mounds and intriguing artifacts.
The Mounds: A Historical Enigma
One of the most fascinating features of Northeastern Ohio is the documented mound that has been recognized twice in history: first as a Hopewell mound in the 1800s and later as an Adena mound in the Archaeological Atlas of Ohio, 1914. For over a century, these findings were obscured, leading to a historical cover-up. The mound itself is a henge and a triangular pyramid, intricately carved from the glacial end moraine. Remarkably, a road still connects this structure to a giant mound that is twice the size of Monk's Mound in Cahokia, with tunnels leading to rooms adorned with images on the walls. This makes it a significant archaeological marvel.
The Ancient Culture: Miners and Craftsmen
The inhabitants of this ancient civilization were not only mound builders but also skilled miners of coal and clay. They developed fine ceramics with exquisite glazes, mold-blown glass, and concrete, indicating a high level of craftsmanship and industry. A sandstone slab city perched atop the glacial end moraine is a testament to their architectural prowess.
Finding on the west side of the giant mound revealed a 70-acre gravel works project, exposing the original gravels of the glacial valley. Fire pits spaced 30 feet apart and covering the entire area were uncovered, suggesting the site dates back approximately 15,000 to 20,000 years.
The Levallois Technique and the Younger Dryas Event
The site is studded with lithics crafted using the Levallois technique, a distinctive method of stone tool production. However, the civilization met its end around the Younger Dryas period, a time marked by abrupt climatic changes. The remnants of their fine ceramics, glass, and concrete were broken up and repurposed into lithic types, likely an attempt to adapt to their changing circumstances.
Conclusion
The archaeological site in Northeastern Ohio offers a gripping glimpse into an advanced ancient civilization that thrived during the Glacial Age. Despite the passage of time and the veil of obscurity, their legacy continues to intrigue and inspire us. These hidden treasures remind us of the complexity and resilience of our past.