TOPICS
MORE ANCIENT OHIO CULTURES
Textiles
An explanation of the variety and complexity of Hopewell textiles, with a demonstration by Dr. Kathryn Jakes of how plant fibers were obtained from stems.
Music
Ethnomusicologist Robert Templeman emphasizes that the builders’ music (panpipes, rattles, rasps, drums, and voices) differed in sound and purpose from we know today.
Music and Authenticity
Ethnomusicologist Robert Templeman points out that most of the music in our program is “Westernized,” and inauthentic.
Sacred Landscape
Archaeologist Dr. Mark Seeman discusses the relation between the hills and valleys of the Ohio River landscape and the formations of the earthworks and mounds.
Reincarnation
Archaeologist Dr. James Brown explains how the earthworks may have been scenes of ritual adoption and the spiritual reincarnation of revered ancestors.
The Cosmological Plan
Dr. James Brown suggests that the geometric earthworks were understood as the cosmos on earth, allowing potential enemies to meet within a common order.
Elaboration and Ritual
Dr. David Cave explores the reasons for the great size and elaboration in ritual grounds and preparations, across cultures.
Naming these Cultures
Historian Dr. Geoffrey Plank urges caution in using the common archaeological categories to define ancient groups, beliefs, or practices.
Deposits
A discussion of the practice, and examples, of Hopewell interment of precious objects and materials in the earth.
Ten Thousand Mounds
Hawk Pope describes the fertility and abundance of the Ohio Valley region and how communities thrived here.
Making Fire
Mark Welsh of Dakota heritage tells a story he remembers about the origin of fire being at Ohio's Flint Ridge.
Hopewell Interaction Sphere
Dr. Robert Hall describes the nature of the trade networks and other influences that spread Hopewell ideas far across the continent.
Circle of Life
Shawnee Chief Frank Wilson talks about walking the medicine wheel of life with its four gateways.
World Renewal
Archaeologist Dr. DeeAnne Wymer explains why some Hopewell deposits suggest the traditional ceremonies of world renewal, still celebrated by many Native American tribes.
Light and Shadow
Archaeologist Dr. Gwynne Henderson of the University of Kentucky talks about the aesthetic power of light and shadow in earthwork design.
