Journey Through Time: Archaeological Insights from Stonehenge, the Hopewell Culture, and Camp Security
November is upon us, but it's never too late to reflect on the glorious significance of October in the realms of archaeology and history. This is the month when we honor International Archaeology Day, a global event that shines a light on the profound value of our shared past. In 2023, the world came together on October 21 to commemorate this momentous day. But what makes October the chosen month for this grand celebration? A chance to take a journey in time through family photos.
In 1965, two photos captured my parents exploring the timeless and enigmatic Stonehenge. As they walked through and among the ancient stones, they became part of a tradition of wanderers who sought to uncover the secrets of the past.
A Glimpse of the Past: 1965
The Fall of 2023: My Turn to Explore
Fast forward to the fall of 2023, and it was my turn to stand amidst the grandeur of Stonehenge. As I walked in the footsteps of my parents, I felt a profound connection to both history and family, an experience that transcends generations.
Ohio's UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks
Are you ready to embark on a fascinating journey to Ohio? There, you'll encounter the remarkable Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks, which have recently earned the esteemed title of the nation's latest UNESCO World Heritage site.
This collection of Earthworks includes the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, where you'll find intriguing sites such as Mound City, the Hopewell Mound Group, Hopeton Earthworks, Seip Earthworks, High Bank Works, as well as Ohio History Connection's Octagon Earthworks and Great Circle Earthworks. These sites collectively bear witness to the exceptional architectural skills and cultural interactions of the Hopewell Culture.
These Earthworks, constructed between 1,600 and 2,000 years ago, stage standardized units of measure, precise geometric shapes, and the discovery of remarkable artifacts. They provide a unique window into the rich tapestry of cultural exchanges that extended from the Yellowstone basin to as far as Florida.
Uncover the mysteries of the past and connect with the enduring legacy of the Hopewell Culture. This brief video, spanning under six minutes, will ignite your imagination and reveal the brilliance of technology.
Ohio's First UNESCO World Heritage Site: Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7G-TJLtLgQ
Closer to home, York PA: Camp Security
While October does not exactly coincide with important anniversaries or historical events in York, it emphasizes the importance of archaeology in understanding and preserving the past.
The Associated Press reported that Archaeologist John Crawmer and his team have unearthed postholes from the stockade at Camp Security, a Revolutionary War prison camp in York, Pennsylvania. The camp held over 1,000 English, Scottish, and Canadian prisoners captured at the 1781 Battle of Yorktown until the British surrender at Saratoga in 1783. Crawmer believes the stockade posts may have been repurposed after the war. Researchers plan to explore the full outline of the structure and search for artifacts. While no human remains have been found, historical records suggest a disease known as "camp fever" may have affected some prisoners. This discovery provides insights into the camp's history and the conditions prisoners faced.
Go to Archaeology: https://www.archaeology.org/news/10961-221101-pennsylvania-revolutionary-war
Los Angeles Times: https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2022-10-28/archaeological-dig-evidence-revolutionary-war-prison-camp
USA Today: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2022/10/28/pennsylvania-revolutionary-war-pow-camp-unearthed/10622873002/
York, Pennsylvania, played a crucial role in this chapter of American history and its archaeological
treasures are still coming to light.
