Newark Earthworks — Attraction in Heath

Visited this beautiful, sacred site this morning. It's one of the few Hopewell Indian Mounds found in central Ohio. Archeologists say the Hopewells lived in the area from 0-400 AD.

Though the pictures don't do it justice, these mounds are probably 15 feet tall and the ditches are about 15 feet deep. The inner area of the great circle is 30 acres! Read the following scriptures from The Book of Mormon, Alma 50 and then look at the pictures.

1 And now it came to pass that Moroni did not stop making preparations for war, or to defend his people against the Lamanites; for he caused that his armies should commence in the commencement of the twentieth year of the reign of the judges, that they should commence in digging up heaps of earth round about all the cities, throughout all the land which was possessed by the Nephites. 2 And upon the top of these ridges of earth he caused that there should be timbers, yea, works of timbers built up to the height of a man, round about the cities. 3 And he caused that upon those works of timbers there should be a frame of pickets built upon the timbers round about; and they were strong and high. 4 And he caused towers to be erected that overlooked those works of pickets, and he caused places of security to be built upon those towers, that the stones and the arrows of the Lamanites could not hurt them. 5 And they were prepared that they could cast stones from the top thereof, according to their pleasure and their strength, and slay him who should attempt to approach near the walls of the city. 6 Thus Moroni did prepare strongholds against the coming of their enemies, round about every city in...

This massive circular earthwork is the only remnant of a giant complex of earthworks that once stood here for more than 2000 years. It is still in good condition but is now surrounded by houses and roads, and it only survived because it was useful to the European settlers as a show ground. Small sections of the surrounding earthworks also remain. I could not help but get a sense of majesty from this place, a quiet dignity, a sense of what once may have been here. There are a few signs with some information around the park, and a small museum that only opens at 12 noon every day - so I didn’t get to see inside it - I think it would have given more context as to the civilisation that built this grand complex in what is today Newark. I couldn’t actually think of a more bizarre juxtaposition of the majesty of this place with its current inhabitants. Still it’s a must see if you are into really ancient structures and a nice spot to picnic or just...

The Newark Earthworks is an absolutely beautiful place to stop by anytime you're feeling adventurous or want to explore the outdoors. It's big and green, and full of trees and open field. It's so peaceful there, a great spot for a picnic! It consists of the Great Circle Earthworks, the Octagon Earthworks, and the Wright Earthworks. And also, there is a museum where you can learn more about the history and importance of The Newark Earthworks. They are the largest set of geometric earthen enclosures in the world! How neat!? It is such a great place to explore! American Indians regard the Newark Earthworks as a sacred site, it's a monumentally historic place to visit! The parking lots are a decent distance from earthworks and the museum. A paved path with some steps give you access to the museum, but there is no direct walkway to the center of the...