The trial to determine the cost of restoring public access to the ancient Octagon Earthworks in Ohio has been rescheduled for July 15. This is the final step for the Ohio History Connection to gain control of all eight ancient areas included in the World Heritage Site, which span central and southeastern Ohio and are described as part cathedral, part cemetery, and part astronomical observatory.
The earthworks, which are part of the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks network and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, were constructed by Native Americans over 2,000 years ago. The site consists of eight long earthen walls that correspond to lunar movements and is located near Newark in central Ohio. Originally slated to begin on a recent Tuesday, the proceeding in Licking County Common Pleas Court was rescheduled by Judge David Branstool.
The trial will determine the value of the long-term lease held by Moundbuilders Country Club, where golfers currently play alongside the mounds. This historical society values the site at around $2 million, while the country club is seeking a much higher price for the lease. However, trial delays occurred as the country club challenged the price-setting process.
