I've become captivated by the Indigenous Earthworks of Ohio.

What began as a visit to a park has turned into dozens of site visits and conversations with archaeologists, naturalists, historians, and volunteers. Every conversation seems to open another door.

I don't think the value comes from understanding these places. I think it comes from not understanding them. Standing in the middle of an earthwork reminds me how little I know. That's the point. In a world where AI can answer almost anything, it's refreshing to stand somewhere that leaves both humans and machines equally puzzled.

Standing in the middle of an earthwork pulls me out of a 21st-century mindset and forces me to think on a much longer timeline. If this work interests you—or if you think our paths should cross—I’d love to hear from you.

Jump in:

• UNESCO World Heritage – Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks

• Fort Ancient Earthworks and Nature Preserve