Visitors are invited to explore and experience fully these ancient, expansive earthworks built masterfully by American Indians during the Fall Open House. The site will be open daylight to dusk, with staff on site to answer questions from Noon–4 p.m
Octagon Earthworks is part of Newark Earthworks, remnants of a 2,000 year-old complex that is the largest set of geometric earthworks ever known. Enclosing 50 acres, the Octagon Earthworks has eight walls, each measuring about 550 feet long and from five to six feet in height. This is a National Historic Landmark and Ohio’s official prehistoric monument. The Newark Earthworks served social, ceremonial and astronomical functions for their builders, people of the Hopewell Culture.
The site will be open daylight to dusk. Staff will be on hand from noon to 4 p.m. to answer questions. Please practice social distancing and wear a mask while on site. Activities will be held at the Great Circle. See below for times.
Moe’s Original Bar B Que Food Truck • Noon–4 p.m.
Enjoy this comforting, fast-casual road house barbecue experience where great food is served fast and fresh
The Works Mobile Unit Activity Table • Noon–4 p.m.
Learn a little about archaeoastronomy with The Works! Dive into science about the moon and it’s phases and a little about American Indian culture and their mounds!
Guided Walking Tour • 1–3 p.m.
Join Local Historian, Jeff Gill on a 3.5 mile guided walking tour starting at the Great Circle Earthworks shelterhouse and finishing at the Octagon Earthworks. Make stops along the way at the Wright Earthworks and other points of interest. The walk is over uneven terrain and partly shaded, and you’ll want to bring along water and sunscreen. This guided tour is one way. If you walk back to your vehicle, the path is about 6 miles altogether.
The Earthworks from an American Indian Perspective and an Introduction to the Newark Earthworks Center • 4 p.m.
Dr John N. Low PhD (Pokagon Band Potawatomi and Director of the OSU Newark Earthworks Center) will lead a conversation about the earthworks and the mission of the Newark Earthworks Center at 4pm. at the Great Circle shelterhouse.
Participating sites
