We are guided by the 7 Generation Principle in that “In our every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations.” The inscription of the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks in Ohio helps to ensure and protect the history, culture and traditions of our ancestors for generations to come.

Chief Billy Friend of the Wyandotte Nation

April 21 Fundraiser to Benefit the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks

Please join us at Conestoga’s 2024 fundraiser supporting the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks — Ohio’s first UNESCO World Heritage site! This year’s event — titled “Honoring Ancient Brilliance — is at the Ohio History Center in Columbus. In partnership with Ohio History Connection staff, Conestoga’s event will include a keynote presentation by Chief Billy Friend of the Wyandotte Nation, great food and drinks, a raffle for outstanding packages and access to exhibits with the Center. Funds raised will represent the first significant private support for the eight sites that comprise the Earthworks. Click here to learn more about ticket prices and how you can support these ancient sites.

The Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks Are Bringing Worldwide Attention to Ohio

In September 2023, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee inscribed the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks as the United States’ 25th addition to the World Heritage list. The Earthworks are contained within eight sites and include the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park in Ross County, Fort Ancient in Warren County and the Newark Earthworks in Licking County. They were built by Native Americans between 1,600 and 2,000 years ago. These sacred and special places are complex masterpieces of landscape architecture and are exceptional among ancient monuments worldwide in their enormous scale, geometric precision and astronomical alignments.

The goal of Conestoga’s fundraiser is to provide support for educational and interpretive activities at the eight sites so visitors of all ages from around the world can learn about and appreciate the significance of these earthworks. Ohio History Connection staff and representatives from many Tribal nations will work collectively to tell the story of these sites in a meaningful and accurate way through exhibits, web-based materials, augmented and virtual reality applications, guided tours and events.

Funding Opportunities for the Fundraiser Are Numerous

EVENT BENEFACTORS (for paid commitment due Feb. 1, 2024)

Event Benefactors underwrite event expenses, enabling more than 80% of the proceeds to go to the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks. Donor categories include:

  • Corporate/Individual Patrons — A gift of $2,500 provides eight complimentary event passes and an identified reserved table, plus the patron name and/or firm logo listing on all communications, including the invitation and the Benefactors’ Board at the event, in Conestoga’s newsletter and on OHC’s Donor Wall at the Ohio History Center.
  • Event Supporter Extraordinaire —Donors of $1,000 or more receive two complimentary event passes, plus their names are listed in all communications, including the invitation and the Benefactors’ Board at the event, in Conestoga’s newsletter, and on OHC’s Donor Wall at the Ohio History Center.
  • Sponsor —Donors of $500 to $999 receive one complimentary event pass and are recognized on the invitation, plus the same benefits as above.
  • Supporter — Donors of $250 to $499 are listed on the invitation and other promotional materials listed above.
  • Partner — Donors of up to $249 are listed on the invitation and other promotional materials listed above.

All gifts qualify for the IRS tax deduction. All checks should be made payable to the Ohio History Connection and mailed to Jennifer Evans, OHC Development Officer, 800 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, OH  43211-2474. To donate via credit card, please contact Jennifer at (740) 272-7639.

RAFFLE PACKAGE DONORS

Past experience shows that the opportunity to win wine and other fine libations, restaurant gift cards and event tickets, as well as experience packages (such as an overnight stay at a resort,) are particularly popular as another way for Conestoga to raise funds. If you have something you’d like to donate, just contact Laura Ecklar at [email protected] or by calling 614-581-2268 to arrange for pick-up. The deadline for receipt of Raffle Package items is Feb. 19, 2024.

Our Story

Conestoga provides an important volunteer corps of support for the Ohio History Connection. While the primary mission is to raise private sector funds for Ohio History Connection programs, Conestoga also provides a variety of opportunities for its more than 170 members to attend programs, visit historical sites and socialize with friends of Ohio history. Since its founding in 1986, Conestoga has given almost $850,000 to OHC in support of programs, exhibits and special funds, plus established an endowment fund. Conestoga members enjoy:

  • Guided tours of historical sites and museums around Ohio;
  • Behind-the-scenes private tours and lectures;
  • Membership to Ohio History Connection, including free admission to all its historical sites and a subscription to Echoes Magazine;
  • North American Reciprocal Museum Association benefits; and
  • Discounts at the Ohio History stores, to name a few.

As a support group, Conestoga also plans and conducts an annual fund-raiser. Opportunities for involvement are plentiful and varied.

Conestoga welcomes members of all ages and interests. Membership currently costs $100 for a single membership and $150 for a duo membership. Dues include admission to all regularly scheduled Conestoga social events and educational programs, as well as all the benefits of the Ohio History Connection Plus membership.

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Interested?

For information on how to join Conestoga, please contact us at 740.272.7639 or click the link below!

Contact Us

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