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Ohio State Parks

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Ohio
Southwest Ohio Region
Fort Hill State Memorial
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FORT HILL STATE MEMORIAL
FORT HILL STATE MEMORIAL
13614 Fort Hill Rd
Hillsboro, Ohio   45133-9033
(lat:39.123 lon:-83.3961) map location

Phone: (800) 283-8905
Fort Hill State Memorial is a nature preserve containing one of the best preserved Indian hilltop enclosures in North America. The Hopewell Indians (100 B.C.-A.D. 500) constructed the 1 1/2 mile long earthwork hilltop enclosure as well as at least two ceremonial buildings and probably a village in the Brush creek Valley.

Lying at the western edge of the Allegheny Plateau, immediately south of the glacial boundary, this hilly area contains an impressive diversity of bedrock, soils, flora, and fauna. There are 11 miles of hiking trails at the 1,200 acre preserve as well as a picnic area. The museum reopened in the fall of 2000 after an extensive renovation. New exhibits include a variety of hands-on and interactive, multimedia displays depicting the geology, flora and fauna of Fort Hill..
History of the Area
Fort Hill State Memorial is located near Hillsboro, Ohio, and is known for its ancient earthworks, which are some of the most impressive in the state. These earthworks were built by the indigenous people of the Hopewell culture between 100 B.C. and 500 A.D. and are believed to have been used for ceremonial and social purposes.

The site was first surveyed in the early 19th century by John Locke, who was mapping the region for land grants. However, it wasn't until the mid-20th century that the significance of the earthworks was recognized by archaeologists. In the 1950s, the Ohio Historical Society began excavations and research at the site, which led to its designation as a state memorial in 1965.

The earthworks at Fort Hill are impressive in their scale and complexity. The site includes a nearly complete circular earthwork enclosure, known as a hilltop enclosure or fort, which spans over 12 acres and is surrounded by walls measuring up to 8 feet in height. The enclosure contains several smaller mounds and a central plaza.

The purpose of the earthworks is not entirely clear, but it is believed that they were used for ceremonial and social gatherings. The site's hilltop location offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, suggesting that it held a significant role in the cultural landscape of the Hopewell people.

Fort Hill State Memorial is open to the public, and visitors can explore the earthworks and learn about the history and archaeology of the site through interpretive signage and guided tours. The earthworks are a testament to the cultural achievements of the Hopewell people and provide valuable insights into the ancient past of Ohio.




Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
December 9 I have so many memories here
park review stars; one to five my family and I have visited here for over 50 years. We were NEVER those that threw garbage down or defaced the natural state of the area. We will NEVER stop coming here so get over it, we will continue to wander OFF trail ECT. We know where everything is in the area. It is beautiful and heaven on earth, The recent change will not cause us to change our ways in the region.
November 10 Great Family Hiking by Happy Hikers
park review stars; one to five I took my four kids for the day and we had a great time. We loved the rustic trails and scenary. I have recommended the hiking trails to friends and family.
October 21 Had a wonderful experience. by Satisfied visitor
park review stars; one to five Stopped to visit after seeing the serpent mounds. Enjoyed Fort Hill much more. It is wonderful that it is in a natural state and not comercialized. The climb up was well worth the effort. Enjoyed the plant life. I hope modern man can keep hands off for future generations to enjoy.
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Ohio State Parks

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