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Ohio
23

Ohio State Parks

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Ohio
Southeast Ohio Region
Adena State Memorial
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ADENA STATE MEMORIAL
ADENA STATE MEMORIAL
848 Adena Rd
Chillicothe, Ohio   45601-1311
(lat:39.3526 lon:-83.0161) map location

Phone: (740) 772-1500
Adena was the 5,000 acre estate of Thomas Worthington (1773-1827), sixth governor of Ohio and our state's first United States Senator. The mansion house, completed in 1807, is furnished today with antiques of the federal period, some of which belonged to Thomas Worthington himself. Situated on the 300 remaining acres are five out-buildings and the formal gardens. Looking east from the north lawn, one can see across the Scioto River Valley to the Mount Logan range of hills. This view is depicted on the Great Seal of the State of Ohio.

Adena is an important site for many reasons. It is the only plantation-type complex of its kind in our state. It is one of only three houses designed by Benjamin Latrobe still standing in the U.S. (Latrobe is considered the first professional American architect and served as Jefferson's surveyor of public buildings.) It is an original building, not a reconstruction. It is extremely well documented and that documentation was followed to the letter in the restoration. And, of course, it was the home of the Father of Ohio Statehood, Thomas Worthington, and was thus visited by many of the important political figures of the day.
History of the Area
Adena State Memorial, also known as Adena Mound, is an archaeological site located in Chillicothe, Ohio. It is one of the most famous and well-preserved examples of an Adena culture earthwork mound in the region. Here is a brief history of the site:

1. Adena Culture: The Adena culture was a prehistoric Native American culture that existed from around 1000 BCE to 200 BCE. They were known for their elaborate burial rituals and mound-building practices. The Adena people built earthworks, including burial mounds and circular enclosures, across several states, with a concentration in the Ohio River Valley.

2. Construction of the Mound: Adena State Memorial was constructed during the Middle Woodland period, around 800 BCE. The mound is conical in shape and stands approximately 20 feet tall with a diameter of about 85 feet. It was built using basket loads of dirt and clay, with the purpose of serving as a burial mound for high-ranking Adena individuals.

3. Rediscovery: The mound was rediscovered in the 1880s after being largely forgotten and overtaken by surrounding farms. It was initially excavated by Harlan I. Smith, a curator at the Smithsonian Institution, who discovered numerous burial remains, including artifacts made of copper, mica, and shells. The discoveries attracted significant attention and sparked interest in the Adena culture.

4. Preservation and Development: In 1891, Ohio established the Adena State Memorial Commission to acquire and protect the mound. The site was acquired and eventually turned into a state park. In the early 1900s, the state added a historic mansion near the mound called the Adena Mansion. The mansion, built by Thomas Worthington, is now a separate part of Adena State Memorial that offers tours and showcases early Ohio history.

5. Listed on National Register: Adena State Memorial was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966, recognizing its significance and legacy. It is recognized as an important cultural and archaeological site, providing valuable insights into the lives and practices of the Adena people.

Visitors to Adena State Memorial can explore the awe-inspiring earthwork mound, visit the historic Adena Mansion, and learn about the Adena culture through exhibits and interpretive materials. The site serves as a testament to the rich heritage of Ohio's indigenous people and provides a unique glimpse into their past.
Nearby Accommodations
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Cottages and Cabins
Rustic beauty in a peaceful, clean atmosphere is the secret to this Family Retreat. The serene splendor of Mother Nature is your reward for visiting Walnut Creek. We offer cabin rentals for those who want the convenience with less effort.
4.4 miles from park*




Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
September 30 A wonderful place to visit. by Daffodil
park review stars; one to five Thomas Worthingtons home and the place to see the real Great Seal of Ohio. Late Spring/early Summer is best for the landscaped gardens and many flowers.
June 18 Beautifully Restored Home by Ohio Gal
park review stars; one to five I was very impressed with the home and its restored decorations. It was just like stepping into an early 19th century mansion.
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Area Campgrounds
Walnut Creek Campground & Resort
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740-774-1203
Sun Valley Campground
10105 County Road 550
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740-775-3490
Lake Hill Campground
2466 North Musselman Station Road
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740-998-5648
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Bait & Tackle
381 N High St
Chillicothe, OH
(740) 774-1985
D & K Bait & Tackle Dealers
288 W Hydell Rd
Chillicothe, OH
(740) 772-1836
Area Accommodations (over 20 miles away)
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Hidden Cave Cabin - Rockbridge, OH
Cottages and Cabins
Hidden Cave Cabin is an authentic log cabin with 2 bedrooms in a private wooded setting. It is located on one of the most scenic drives in Hocking Hills and just 3.6 miles to Rock House and less than 10 miles to Conkle's Hollow and Old Man's Cave.
25.5 miles from park*
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Cottages and Cabins
Trickle Creek offers luxury cabins in Hocking Hills. The cabins are situated on nearly 236 acres of secluded cabin rentals in the deep wooded ravines in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Hocking County, Ohio.
30.7 miles from park*
Nearby Hotels
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Ohio
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Ohio State Parks

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