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Media contacts: Kim Schuette: 614.297.2314 or kschuette@ohiohistory.org
Media contacts: Jim Kingery: 740.787.2476 or 800.283.8707 or jkingery@ohiohistory.org
For Immediate Release
Flint Ridge Features Native American and Pioneer Events for August
Knap-In To Draw Crowds Aug. 29-31
(Brownsville, Ohio, July 23, 2008) – Flint Ridge, an Ohio Historical Society site, will be hosting a series of events in August highlighting the state's Native American and pioneer heritage. From special events featuring the craft of flint knapping to educational programs on Native American culture, the Ohio Historical Society offers visitors several opportunities to learn and enjoy about this unique place where native Ohioans and early settlers alike mined high-quality flint for making tools.
The biggest event of the season is the Flint Ridge Knap-In, Aug. 29-31, is held in cooperation with the Flint Ridge Lithic Society. The event draws people skilled in crafting arrow and spearheads from all over the country because Flint Ridge, which runs more than 10 miles in Muskingum and Licking counties, is known for its high-quality flint in a variety of colors. Native Americans came to the ridge as long ago as 10,000 years to quarry flint for making tools and weapons.
During the event, artisans will fashion projectile points and tools from stone. In addition to demonstrations, there will be a large selection of flint products for sale as well as on-going activities, including the long dart practice and competition hosted by the Ohio Atlatl Association. On Aug. 30, highlights include an archaeology "road show" and a public auction. At the museum from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a geologist and an archaeologist will identify field finds the public brings in for identification. At 4:30 p.m., Saturday the auction will feature flint projectile points and stone tools created at the Knap-In as well as related merchandise. Admission is $5 per car.
Other educational programs planned for Flint Ridge in August are the following:
For A Reconnection of the Past to the Present: Black Hand Gorge and Flint Ridge, Mark Welsh of the Native American Indian Center of Central Ohio (NAICCO ) will lead a trail walk through the mature hardwood forest on Aug. 2 and discuss one of the most important Native American stories that connects Flint Ridge and Black Hand Gorge, which over the centuries has survived as oral tradition and legend. Natural aspects of the site will be admired as nature interplays with importance of Flint Ridge as a Native American quarry site. The walk will begin at 2 p.m. At the conclusion of the hike, in recognition of the tribes that came from great distances to quarry flint at this site, participants can experience a meal featuring traveling food that was traditionally carried. Cost of the meal is $8. Registration is encouraged to ensure availability. The trail is not handicapped accessible.
A little knowledge on gold panning might help you strike it rich! On Aug. 9 from noon to 5 p.m., Chris Stricklett and Chris Miller will demonstrate the tools of the gold panning trade and reveal the secrets of how to look for gold deposits. Learn the effects of glaciation on gold deposits. This family-friendly program offers hands-on opportunities for adults and children. Ongoing demonstrations on flint knapping are an added bonus.
Join Nancy Good Heart Swartz of the Lower Eastern Mekoce Shawnee Aug. 16 as she tells stories that personify the wisdom of Native Americans in their approach to the natural world. The storytelling begins at 2 p.m. at the Flint Ridge Museum.
Our ancient American heritage involves the preservation of mounds and earthworks across the state. Bill Pickard, Ohio Historical Society archaeologist, brings a virtual tour concerning the preservation and destruction of mounds as well as a glimpse into the personalities of people involved. The program begins at 2 p.m. on Aug. 17
Flint Ridge is one of 58 sites operated by the Ohio Historical Society, a private, non-profit organization that serves as the state’s partner in preserving and interpreting Ohio’s history, archaeology, and natural history. The site is located at 7091 Brownsville Road SE (Route 668) three miles north of Brownsville, Ohio in Licking County at the intersection of County Road 668 and 312 (Flint Ridge Road). Exit eastbound I-70 at State Route 668 and westbound I-70 at the Gratiot exit 142.
For additional information, call 800-600-7178/740-344-1919 prior to the event and 740-787-2476/800-283-8707 on weekends. For more information about Ohio Historical Society events, go online at www.ohiohistory.org/events.
Fort Ancient is located in Warren County, approximately 20 minutes north of King’s Island, off Interstate 71. The cost of the event is $8 for adults and $4 for children. Two-day passes available at the gate. The event is half price to Ohio Historical Society members and Fort Ancient Season Pass holders. For additional information, call (513) 932-4421 or 1-800-283-8904.
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