The Monument is in the southern part of the state near Chillicothe on the bank of the Scioto River. Drive about three miles north from Chillicothe on Highway 23.
WHEN TO VISIT
Open year round. Peak visitor month is August. Climate: January, 22 to 46 degrees F; July, 80 to 88 degrees F.
POINTS OF INTEREST
Twenty-three burial mounds of Hopewell Indians (200 B.C to 500 A.D.) yielded copper breastplates, tools, obsidian blades, shells, ornaments of grizzly bear teeth, and stone pipes carved as birds and animals. These provide insights into the ceremonial customs of these prehistoric people. The Scioto River Valley was the birthplace of Tecumseh, an outstanding Shawnee leader. He, with his brother, Tenskwatawa, began a crusade to keep Indian lands for the Indians. Tecumseh travelled to most Indian nations east of the Rocky Mountains convincing them to return to ways of their forefathers and unite against white settlers. Tecumseh died in 1813.
Camping is available in Chillicothe and nearby state Parks. Food, supplies, and overnight accommodations are available in Chillicothe. Southern Ohio is rich in prehistoric Indian sites which include: Fort Ancient, Fort Hill, Miamisburg Mound, Newark Earthworks, Seip Mound, and Serpent Mound. Historical and archaeological exhibits may be seen in the Ross County Historical Society Museum in Chillicothe and at the Ohio Historical Center in Columbus. The outdoor drama "Tecumseh!" depicting the story of the Shawnee leader is held during Summer evenings at Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheater.
