Ohio Native Americans

Ohio's story stretches far beyond the arrival of European settlers.  Their influence stays with us through today’s lexicon with names such as Ohio, Chillicothe, Wapakoneta, Erie, Miami and many more.  Thousands of years ago, a rich tapestry of Native American cultures thrived across the state, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate today. Let's embark on a journey to uncover Ohio's pre-civilization state and the people who called it home.

Ohio’s Native American Periods

Before European settlers arrived, Ohio was home to several ancient Native American cultures. Here are some key periods:

• Paleo Indian (13,000 B.C. - 8,000 B.C.): During the last centuries of the Ice Age, native people crossed the Bering Strait land bridge from Asia to North America.
• Archaic People (9,000 B.C. - 1,000 B.C.)
• Woodland Period (1,000 B.C - CE 1000): The Woodland Period in Ohio is defined by people settling into communities, the beginning of agriculture, and the building of massive mounds
• Late Prehistoric Period (1000 -1650): last period before the arrival of Europeans into Ohio during the eighteenth century. The Fort Ancient culture was the last of the three Native American mound building cultures in the Ohio River Valley.
• Early Contact period (1600 – 1750): began when Ohio tribes met Europeans, but they had begun to acquire European trade items

Native American Landmarks of Ohio

• Fort Ancient Earthworks:  Displaying art prints of Fort Ancient connects us to the Hopewell legacy. Businesses can adorn their spaces with images of this remarkable hilltop enclosure, celebrating Ohio’s ancient past and the spirit of innovation.
• Serpent Mound:  Art prints of Serpent Mound evoke awe and reverence for the ancient builders. They serve as conversation starters, fostering pride in Ohio’s unique heritage.
• Newark Earthworks:  Geometric patterns from Newark Earthworks can adorn office walls, reminding us of the Hopewell people’s mathematical precision and creativity.
• SunWatch Village:  Prints of SunWatch Village, a Fort Ancient culture site, honor Ohio’s Native American history. The giant cedar pole-turned-sundial adds an intriguing touch.
• Mound City Group:  Art prints featuring Mound City’s burial mounds connect us to the Hopewell culture’s spiritual practices and communal life.
• Miamisburg Mound: Celebrate Ohio’s Adena heritage with prints of the largest Adena culture burial mound.

Celebrating Ohio's Rich Heritage Through Art Prints

Art prints depicting Ohio's Native American cultures offer a meaningful way for today's Ohioans to reconnect with their state's indigenous heritage. These prints serve as visual reminders of the region's ancient past, honoring the legacy of Native American peoples who once called Ohio home.

By incorporating art prints of Native American cultures into their homes, businesses, and public spaces, Ohioans can pay homage to the land's original inhabitants and acknowledge their contributions to the state's cultural mosaic. Whether it's a depiction of an Adena burial mound, a vibrant portrayal of Shawnee ceremonial regalia, or a stylized representation of Hopewell earthworks, these artworks provide a window into Ohio's indigenous heritage and promote awareness and appreciation of Native American history.