In the 19th century, Ohio was the center of archaeological research in America. Its rich diversity and enigmatic mounds and earthworks attracted scholars from near and far. The first archaeological preserves in America were created here. But by the 20th century, interest was waning as the Moundbuilder mystery appeared to be solved. In the last 15 years or so, Ohio’s archaeology has returned to the national limelight with a new generation of scholars tackling long forgotten problems and coming up with dramatic answers.
The non-profit Voyageur Media Group has produced this wonderful book on the 13,000 plus years of human presence in what we call Ohio. Brad Lepper, curator of archaeology at the Ohio Historical Society, is the primary author, but the book also includes 28 articles by top scholars on most every aspect of Ohio prehistory. Illustrated with photos, maps, charts, and artists’ re-creations, the editors have designed a book that is a joy to read.
The archaeologist authors describe their latest research, which is daily adding to our knowledge and understanding of Midwestern prehistory. Dates are being determined with fantastic new technology. Astronomical alignments are giving us new insights into octagon shaped earthworks. Computer simulations re-create massive mounds and earthworks that are barely visible on the ground, a technique made necessary by the widespread destruction of Ohio’s prehistory by urban sprawl, modern agriculture, and looting.
Ohio Archaeology reflects the archaeological renaissance of the region, and it sets a high standard for presentation that every publisher should seek in books produced for the general public. It is an important step in rebuilding a grand archaeological tradition in a state where much of American archaeology got its start.
