Ohio History Journal

TWELFTH ANNUAL REPORT

 

 

 

OF THE

 

OHIO STATE

 

ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL

 

SOCIETY

 

 

 

FOR THE YEAR

 

FEBRUARY 18, 1896 TO FEBRUARY 1, 1897.

 

 

 

 

GEN. R. BRINKERHOFF, President.

E. 0. RANDALL, Secretary.

 

 

 

 

 

COLUMBUS, O., JANUARY, 1897.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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To His Excellency, Asa S. Bushnell, Governor of Ohio:

SIR:-I have the honor to submit herewith the twelfth annual

report of the Ohio State Archaeological and Historical Society,

covering the year from February 19, 1896, to February 1, 1897.

This report, while complete as to the more important pro-

ceedings of the Society, is made as concise as possible, and for the

greater convenience of the reader, the chief items of interest are

arranged topically. For the benefit of those not heretofore famil-

iar with the Society, a brief statement of its history and objects

follows the regular report.

With very great respect, I remain,

Yours truly,

E. O. RANDALL, Secretary.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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OFFICERS

 

FROM FEBRUARY 18, 1896 TO FEBRUARY 1, 1897.

GEN. R. BRINKERHOFF,   ..            .   President

REV. WM. E. MOORE, D. D., LL. D., .  .         . Vice President

HON. S. S. RICKLY,                             .                     .    ..             Treasurer

EDWIN F. WOOD,                               .                     .. Assistant Treasurer

E. O. RANDALL, PH. B., LL. M., .  .  .    .     Secretary

PROF. WARREN K. MOOREHEAD,                                                         .                    Curator

 

TRUSTEES ELECTED BY THE SOCIETY.

 

TERM EXPIRES IN 1897.

HON. CALVIN S. BRICE,      ...                     Lima

HON. ELROY M. AVERY,             .                .      .. Cleveland

BISHOP B. W. ARNETT,      .             .         .               .   .                Wilberforce

HON. S. S. RICKLY,              .             .                                              Columbus

MR. G. F. BAREIS,                         .. Canal Winchester

 

TERM EXPIRES IN 1898.

GEN. R. BRINKERHOFF,               .          .   .. Mansfield

HON. M. D. FOLLETT,                                                       ..                Marietta

HON. D. J. RYAN, .  .                                          .                .   .    .   . Columbus

REV. H. A. THOMPSON,                     .. Dayton

MR. R. E. HILLS,    .                                            .                       ..              Delaware

 

TERM EXPIRES IN 1899.

HON. JOHN SHERMAN,                ..         Mansfield

PROF. G. F. WRIGHT, .                           .                       ..              Oberlin

REV. WM. E. MOORE,                              ..           Columbus

HON. JOHN B. PEASLEE,                         .. Cincinnati

MR. A. H. SMYTHE,                                 ..               Columbus

 

APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR.

HON. CHARLES P. GRIFFIN, Toledo, 1897; HON. A. ROBE-

SON, Greenville, 1897; *HON. W. J. GILMORE, Columbus, 1898;

HON. ISRAEL WILLIAMS, Hamilton, 1898; HON. ALEXANDER

BOXWELL, Red Lion, 1899; HON. E. O. RANDALL, Colum-

bus, 1899.

 

*Deceased August 9, 1896.

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TWELFTH ANNUAL MEETING.

 

 

For important reasons it was found necessary to postpone

the eleventh annual meeting of the Society from the date then

provided in the Constitution, viz. the third Tuesday in February

until February 27 (1896). On that day the twelfth meeting

(eleventh annual) of the Society convened in the Library Room

of the State Capitol, Columbus, Ohio, at 2 P. M., with General

R. Brinkerhoff, the President, in the chair, and Mr. E. O. Randall

Secretary. The following members were present:

George F. Bareis, Canal Winchester; A. R. McIntire. Mt.

Vernon; J. H. Todd, Wooster; F. O. Hart, West Unity; J. L.

Oldham, Reynoldsburg; Israel Williams, Hamilton; R. E. Hills,

Cyrus Platt, Delaware; M. D. Follett, Marietta; B. W. Ar-

nett, Wilberforce; J. C. Reeve, H. A. Thompson, Dayton; W.

K. Moorehead, L. C. Herrick, W. H. Jennings, D. H. Gard, J.

H. Anderson, George B. Wright, William E. Moore, John J.

Janney, E. O. Randall, Benigna G. Kalb, Edwin F. Wood, A. H.

Smythe, Frank Howe, Rutherford Hayes, Charles Parrott, Harry

P. Ward and James Kilbourne, Columbus.

The minutes of the last (tenth) annual meeting (February 19,

1895) of the Society were read and approved. The concise re-

port of the Executive Committee to the Governor of the State,

which had been prepared by the Secretary, was presented as the

report of the Excutive Committee to the Society, and was re-

ceived and approved as such. The Secretary stated the following

life members had died during the year, viz: Gen. E. C. Dawes, of

Cincinnati; Hon. Allen G. Thurman, of Columbus; Prof. N. S.

Townshend, of Columbus, and A. A. Graham, late Secretary of

the Society.

In regard to the "Archaeologist," which had for the year

1895 been the official organ of the Society, the Secretary ex-

plained that September 1895, the "Archaeologist" had been sold

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296      Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

by its proprietors to The Popular Science News Company of

New York, and merged into that publication. This last named

company had assumed and continued the contract of the "Arch-

aeologist" with this Society until the expiration of said contract

January, 1896, when it was thought best not to renew said con-

tract, and the Society now has no official publication.

In the matter of the Greenville Centennial celebration, (Aug-

ust 1895), the Secretary stated that as the Legislature had failed

to make the appropriation necessary to enable the Society to par-

ticipate in that event, it was, of course, unable to take part as a

Society. However, Judge W. J. Gilmore, on behalf of the Society,

had delivered an address on the occasion of the celebration, which

had reflected great credit on the Society, and which had been

published. Dr. H. A. Thompson was also present at the centen-

nial as a representative of the Society.

On motion of Mr. Rickly, the President, Vice President and

Secretary were made a committee to prepare and enter upon the

minutes of the Society suitable memorials of life members de-

ceased during the past year.

The election of trustees was then taken up, five to be elected.

On motion a nominating committee, consisting of Messrs. Bareis,

Wood and Randall, was appointed to nominate to the Society.

The report of this committee was unanimously adopted, with

the following result: Hon. John Sherman, Mansfield, Pro-

fessor George F. Wright, Oberlin, and Rev. William E. Moore,

Columbus, whose terms expired at this time, were re-elected to

succeed themselves for the following three years, to February,

1899, and Hon. John P. Peaslee, of Cincinnati, and Mr. A. H.

Smythe, of Columbus, were elected to succeed Major E. C.

Dawes and Prof. N. S. Townshend, deceased. The terms of

Messrs. Peaslee and Smythe being also for three years from date

of election until February, 1899.

The terms of A. H. Smythe and E. O. Randall, appointees

by Gov. McKinley, expired on February 18, 1896, and Gov.

Bushnell appointed E. O. Randall to succeed himself for three

years ending February, 1899, and the Hon. Alexander Boxwell

to succeed Mr. Smythe. Mr. Boxwell's term to be also for three

years ending February, 1899.

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Twelfth Annual Meeting.            297

 

Upon inquiry the Secretary made a report of the efforts made

by the Executive Committee towards securing a proper appro-

priation for the Society from the Legislature, the gross amount

asked for being $5,000.00, which amount it was believed the Leg-

islature would grant.

On motion of Mr. Williams, seconded by Dr. Moore, the Ex-

ecutive Committee were instructed to use such means as they

might find advisable for increasing the membership of the Society,

and especially to bring the work and aims of the Society to the

attention of the colleges and various other institutions of learn-

ing throughout the State.

The following amendment to Article V, Section 1, of the

Constitution, proposed by Mr. Wood, was adopted, viz.:

"SEC. 1. The annual meeting of the Society shall be held

in the City of Columbus at such time during the month of Feb-

ruary of each year as the Executive Committee may select. Due

notice of the meeting shall be mailed to all members at least ten

(10) days before the said meeting is held."

Mr. Bareis offered the following amendment to Article III,

Section 3, of the Constitution, which was adopted, making said

section read as follows:

"SEC. 3. There shall be an Executive Committee, which

shall consist of the President, Vice President, Secretary and

Treasurer, and not less than five other members as the trustees

shall select from their own number. Five members of said com-

mittee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.

The Executive Committee shall have full power in the interim

to conduct and administer the affairs of the Society."

A committee consisting of Messrs. Bareis, Moore and

Thompson were appointed to await upon the Governor and ex-

tend to him the congratulations and good wishes of the Society.

Upon their return they reported a pleasant and satisfactory

call upon the Governor, that he returned greetings to the Society,

that it had his good wishes and would have his cordial attention

and support.

The business portion of the meeting having been concluded,

Mr. Cyrus Platt, of Delaware, read a paper narrating the jour-

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298      Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

neyings of Col. James Kilbourne and companion from Connec-

ticut to Ohio in the year 18-. This paper proved of much inter-

est to his listeners, a number of citizens of Columbus, not mem-

bers, being present. On motion a vote of thanks was tendered

Mr. Platt for his paper, and he was asked to deposit the same

with the Secretary of the Society for preservation with the docu-

ments of the Society.

Mr. Warren K. Moorehead, Curator of the Society, made

a detailed statement of what had been done in the way of field

work for the Society during the past year, and what it was desired

to accomplish during the coming year. Following this a most

entertaining paper was read by Mr. J. J. Janney, relating the

adventures of one of his ancestors, who had been a prisoner of

the Indians during the early period of Ohio's history. The paper

was listened to with evident interest and appreciation, and upon

motion Mr. Janney was tendered a vote of thanks and asked to

furnish the Secretary with a copy of the paper for preservation.

On motion meeting adjourned.

The meeting of the Society was immediately followed by

the annual meeting of the trustees.

 

ANNUAL MEETING OF THE TRUSTEES.

The following trustees were present: Messrs. Arnett,

Bareis, Brinkerhoff, Follett, Hills, Moore, Randall, Rickly,

Smythe, Thompson, Williams. General Brinkerhoff was selected

as temporary chairman, and Mr. Randall chosen temporary sec-

retary. The officers of the Society elected by the trustees to

serve for the ensuing year from date of February 27 were as

follows: President, R. Brinkerhoff, Mansfield; Vice President,

William E. Moore, Columbus; Secretary, E. O. Randall, Colum-

bus; Treasurer, S. S. Rickly, Columbus; Assistant Treasurer,

E. F. Wood, Columbus. In addition to the officers of the Soci-

ety, who are ex officio members, the following Executive Com-

mittee was selected: Messrs. Bareis, Gilmore, Hills, Ryan,

Smythe, Arnett.

On motion the matter of compensation to the officers and

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Twelfth Annual Meeting.             299

 

other agents found necessary to be employed, was referred to

the Executive Committee with power to act.

The Executive Committee adjourned to meet on the morn-

ing of the 28th.

THE ANNUAL BANQUET.

On the evening of February 27, following the custom of the

Society in closing their annual session with a banquet, a most

interesting and enjoyable dinner was given at the Neil House.

About eighty ladies and gentlemen were seated at the board,

which was graced by the presence of Governor and Mrs. Bush-

nell, Speaker D. L. Sleeper, Senator and Mrs. Ely, Auditor and

Mrs. W. D. Guilbert, Senators Garfield, Whittlesey, Mayor C. C.

Waddle of Chillicothe, Drs. Gladden and Canfield and other dis-

tinguished guests, Governor and Mrs. Bushnell occupying the

place of honor at the head of the table. Secretary E. O. Randall

acted as toastmaster.

Hon. D. M. Massie, who was to have responded to the toast,

"The Chillicothe Centennial," was unavoidably detained in that

city and Mayor C. C. Waddle filled his place in a very creditable

manner.

President Roeliff Brinkerhoff began the evening's ora-

tory in an admirable brief address which deserves preservation

and is here given in full.

 

PRESIDENT BRINKERHOFF'S ADDRESS.

 

I congratulate the members and friends of the Ohio Archae-

ological and Historical Association upon the very encourag-

ing conditions under which we have met to hold our annual meet-

ing and participate in our annual banquet.

It is now twenty-one years since the Archaeological and His-

torical Association had its beginning. For the first ten years

it was the Archaeological Association alone, and did a good work,

and then for eleven years as the Archaeological and Historical

Association it did a larger work, and now at last, upon its arrival

at the mature age of twenty-one, like a young man who has

reached his majority, it is prepared to go forth with more aggress-

iveness than ever before.

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300       Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

More than ever before, I am sure, the people of Ohio appre-

ciate the importance of preserving the memorials of its greatness,

whether historic or prehistoric; often in both directions it is un-

surpassed by any State in the Union.

For unknown centuries the area of land known as the State

of Ohio has been one of the most favored portions of the earth

for the support and comfort of the various races who have come

and gone.

Centuries ago it was the dwelling place of great nations, and

their memorials in the form of mounds and fortifications, imple-

ments of war and warships, are scattered all over the State. To

our shame and sorrow it must be said that, in the preservation and

study of their memorials, other States have done more than we

have ourselves.

Six months ago, in one single collection, in the city of Sal-

isbury, England, I saw a museum of Ohio Archaeology more rep-

resentative in its character than all our Ohio collections put to-

gether. It was the famous Squire and Davis collection described

in the first volume of the Smithsonian publication, and was pur-

chased by William Blackmore in 1864, for less than it cost to

gather it, and is now preserved in a fireproof building erected

for that purpose, and is now known as the Blackmore Museum.

All over Europe are spoils from Ohio hunting grounds. So

also in the collections of other States, and especially in the great

collection of the Smithsonian institution in Washington.

As with prehistoric, so with later years, in what is known as

the historic period, we have been negligent of our duties, and

have not preserved such record of events as we should have done.

Nations like men grow in strength and wisdom by accumu-

lating experiences, and not to do this is to remain stationary or

to lapse into barbarism. Another element of growth is the pos-

session of inspiring ideals, and that nation is greatest when

ideals are the highest, and ideals to be effective must be embodied

in a life.

Under these circumstances it becomes the highest duties of

a State to preserve a record of its noblest men for the inspiration of

future generations.

No State in the Union has furnished nobler men or nobler

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Twelfth Annual Meeting.             301

 

deeds than the State of Ohio, and not to preserve a record of

them is an outrage upon posterity.

To preserve these records is what the Ohio Archaeological

and Historical Society is trying to do.

We have done something already, but we want to do a great

deal more, and we appeal to the people of Ohio, and to the Leg-

islature of Ohio to help us.

It is true there are local institutions which have done good

work, and of these the Western Reserve Historical Society de-

serves high commendation, but no local society, with only local

support, can do what ought to be done for the State.

Our Society is already a State institution, and in its govern-

ment the State is represented by six trustees, appointed by the

Governor, and we have received assistance from the State, but

it is not sufficient for the work that ought to be done.

What we need very much, and what we ought to have in the

near future, is a fireproof building for the preservation of his-

toric and prehistoric relics.

In Wisconsin a few years ago the State appropriated

$180,000 for such a building in addition to the annual amount

for its ample support, and it is the only State west of the Alle-

ghenies that has done so well.

We believe that the people of Ohio would approve similar

action, and the sooner it is done the better.

It is true we can go forward on small appropriations, and

accomplish something, but the great State of Ohio, the greatest

in the Union, ought not to be satisfied with small things.

"To him that hath shall be given" is a declaration especially

applicable to such an institution as ours, for it grows like a snow-

ball, and the bigger it gets the larger is its attractive force.

Such a building as we desire would bring to it in contribu-

tion in a single year more than its actual cash value.

These contributions would come in the way of archaeological

collections, in historic documents, in books, in pamphlets and

in many other things of historic value, which are now scattered

all over the State, waiting for a permanent resting-place in a

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302      Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

fireproof building under the permanent direction and protec-

tion of the State government.

In conclusion let me urge upon all who are interested in our

cause to do what they can to bring about the conditions we desire.

 

 

RESPONSES TO TOASTS.

Mr. Randall was the next speaker. About three years

ago, he said he was unexpectedly called into the presence of

Governor McKinley, who requested from him information as to

the nature and purpose of the Archaeological Society; to the Gov-

ernor he had explained in as "lucid and luminous" a statement

as possible, that it was a society for the preservation of the "bric-

a-brac" of his administration; among a portion of that bric-a-brac

Governor Bushnell was now seated. Mr. Randall, in a fitting

speech, then introduced Governor Bushnell, who spoke as fol-

lows:

He thanked the Society for the cordial greeting extended

to him. He said he felt as the boy did at the revival. The min-

ister requested all who wanted to go to heaven to stand up,

and all except one good-sized boy arose. He then requested all

who wanted to go to the other place to stand up. No one re-

sponded, and puzzled as to the action of the boy who had both

times remained sitting, he asked him why he had done so. The

boy replied that he didn't want to go to either place, that Ohio

was good enough for him, and that was just the way he felt

about it himself.

He was pleased with the bric-a-brac of his administration.

We all love Ohio, he continued, for what she was, for what she

is, and what she has in promise. Another thing we love Ohio for

is that she has furnished men for every occasion, whether in war

or peace, referring to the men whom she had sent to battle, and

the indomitable leaders she gave to them, Grant, Sherman

and Sheridan, and now she is to contest the title of the "Mother

of Presidents" with her sister State of Virginia, and the people

of the State will not object to Ohio furnishing another President

of the United States in the person of Governor McKinley.

President Brinkerhoff, who is a Democrat, remarked that

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Twelfth Annual Meeting.             303

 

they were going to run Campbell, which sally interrupted the

address of the Governor by the round of laughter which followed

from those present. The Governor replied by relating an appro-

priate story.

One of the most important features of the Ohio of the pres-

ent was the enlargement of the capital building in this city. He

suggested the building of a wing on the south for the accommo-

dation of the Supreme Court, and later a wing on the north

for additional offices, another story over the center, and finally

a handsome dome surmounting all. He thought the improve-

ments could be made for $2,500,000, and hoped some plan would

be arranged by which the amount could be raised within the next

year. He predicted an improved condition of the people and

institutions of every character that would make Ohio a good

State for any man to select as his home, and thus closed a char-

acteristically happy address.

"Early Politics and Politicians in Ohio," was next discussed

by Hon. D. J. Ryan. Mr. Ryan said that the politics of the day,

the partisanship and the men who mingled in them were far

advanced from their condition in the early days. He reviewed

in a somewhat humorous manner the political history of the

State from its inception up to the present time, and the bitter

partisanship that was injected into the contests of bygone days

as compared with politics of the present, and closed with the

assurance that the people and the character of politics were both

growing better.

The next address was delivered by Gen. George B. Wright

on "The Railroads and Telegraphs in Ohio." He gave an inter-

esting review of the history and growth of the railroads in the

State, and the regulations and customs that governed their con-

struction and operation in the early days. With a striking com-

parison of the mechanism and speed of the railroad trains of the

present day and a short history of the telegraph, he closed a most

entertaining address.

The Historical resources of the Hocking Valley were most

ably and entertainingly recounted by Hon. D. L. Sleeper, who

selected as his subject, "The Hocking Valley as a Field for His-

torical Research."

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304       Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

In opening his address he entered a vigorous protest against

the name by which the beautiful and picturesque valley was called.

It was a misnomer, the proper name being Hock-hocking Valley,

a beautiful Indian name, which means "a bottle," and having

been reared upon that bottle he would insist upon proper respect

and deference.

The Hock-hocking Valley was prolific in historical relics.

Within a few miles of Athens were a number of mounds of great

symmetry and beauty. Abounding in the beautiful valley were

abundant relics of the ancient inhabitants who had made the

valley their home. In that valley is found the oldest city of the

State, Marietta; the oldest inland city of the State, Athens; the

first college that was established in the State and the first library

that was founded. It was organized February 7, 1804, and was

called the Coon Skin library from the fact that it was founded

and sustained from the sale of the fur of wild animals. Mr.

Sleeper closed with a short reference to the legends and historical

events connected with the Valley.

Rev. William E. Moore next spoke interestingly upon "The

Treasures of Fort Ancient." He said that while a number of

archaeological specimens had been taken from the fort, the prin-

cipal treasure of the fort was the fort itself, which had remained

almost without evidence of change during the many years it had

been cultivated. He advanced the theory that the fort was con-

structed for military defense by the prehistoric inhabitants of the

State. It seems that when the State purchased the fort, a num-

ber of acres were left outside the fort, though from what reason

was not known, and he strongly advocated the purchase of that

portion of the structure without the possession of the State.

Mayor Waddle, in responding to the toast, "The Chillicothe

Centennial," for Hon. D. M. Massie, expressed for Mr. Massie

his deep regret at being denied the pleasure of attending the

banquet and called the attention of the assemblage to the coming

centennial celebration of the city of which he was the represen-

tative. He referred to the history of Chillicothe, its interest to

the student of history, the illustrious men who reposed within

its churchyard and closed with an invitation to the Society and

those present to attend the coming celebration.

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Hon. James R. Garfield delivered a happy speech in his

response to the toast, "Importance of History in the Schools and

Colleges of the State." In opening his address he said that he

could not determine why when a man entered politics and was

elected to office that the title "Hon." was prefixed to his name.

Men followed the ordinary pursuits of life, but the title was never

conferred upon them, and the logical deduction was that politics

was synonymous with honor and the distinction followed natur-

ally. The Society had shown great foresight and sagacity in

inviting a number of members of the Legislature to the banquet

and then, after the inner man had been thoroughly satisfied, to

have delicately intimated that they too wanted an appropriation.

Reverting to the subject of his address, Mr. Garfield discussed

its influence upon the formation of the character in school chil-

dren and the benefit that would accrue to them when they were

men and women.

Following Mr. Garfield Mr. John J. Janney spoke upon "Do

Any of the Earthworks of the Moundbuilders Have Any Military

Significance?" He was skeptical as to the positive statements

in regard to the significance attached to the relics unearthed and

the mounds in the State and contended that all explanations

offered for their presence or assertions as to their builders, or the

age of their existence was the merest speculation, for the period

of their creation antedated the country's history. In speaking

more particularly of the text of his address he controverted the

statement of Rev. Mr. Moore, that Fort Ancient was constructed

for warlike purposes. In argument he said that the inhabitants

at that time did not fight in a manner that would require fortifica-

tions of that nature and to his mind such works were more closely

associated with the sports and pleasures of the race, and that the

purpose of the mounds, the date of the race and the date of their

departure was merely guesswork.

Dr. Washington Gladden followed with an eloquent and

masterly address upon "Life of the People in History." He be-

gan his address by saying that one of the strong proofs of the

rise of the people can be found in history. It was not long ago

that historians were occupied with camps and courts, warriors

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306      Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

and lawyers, slayers and tax eaters. Of late years his-

tory has taken on a new phase. The first instance of this

change was given to the world by Macaulay, which was followed

by a succession of more signal illustrations of this new develop-

ment up to the present time. There was yet unfilled great op-

portunity for further development in historical research and com-

pilation along the lines of State education, canals and railroads,

the economic history of the State, its depressions and the rem-

edies which had been applied to their correction. The life of the

people of the State and country was an inexhaustible source of in-

formation and instruction. A study of history was necessary

to the advancement of the people, who were the coming kings,

and nothing would elevate them more than an interest in and

study of their own history.

In beginning his address upon "Relations of the 0. A. &

H. S. to the 0. S. U.," Dr. James H. Canfield entertained the

guests with a number of well-told and humorous stories that im-

mediately placed him in the best of favor with his hearers. Re-

verting to the subject of his address, he said that it was with

great regret that he saw the absence of the proper interest that

should be manifested in the work of the Society, but thought that

the right course to enlist this interest had not been followed.

Not that he meant to criticise the work of the Society, but that

other plans could be employed with, in his mind, greater results.

The present generation was too busily employed with the other

cares of life, the responsibility was too great, and the pressure

too constant to permit of the proper attention being paid to the

Society and its mission.

We must look for the increased interest in archaeological

research in the generation to come, and the work of establishing

this must be undertaken at once, and through the medium of

the schools of the State. The initial step should be taken by in-

spiring in the student a spirit of inquiry into historical subjects

by requiring him to trace out the history of his home, his school,

his city, and gradually broadening the scope until it embraces

the objective point. History, in his opinion, had always been

taught backward; teachers had always begun with ancient his-

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Twelfth Annual Meeting.             307

 

tory and followed its instruction until the immediate history of

a scholar's country was reached and there it stopped, probably

from the fact that it was supposed that he either knew of it him-

self, or it was not of sufficient importance to merit the time ex-

pended in its teaching. This, he contended, was the most im-

portant feature of history and should be taught before any of

the other branches. He advocated the offering of prizes by the

Society for answers upon the subjects of archaeological research

to the pupils of the schools and colleges of the State, and pre-

dicted most gratifying results from the plan.

Referring to the university, he said that it was and should

be the Mecca of every great task in literature or other branch of

mental attainment, and he hoped to see the day not far off when

there would be a library building built by the State, or the public

spirit of its citizens, should occupy the center of the campus and

that therein should be combined the magnificent library of the

university and the works and collection of the Archaeological

Society. Whether one of the statesmen present would act upon

the suggestion he did not know, but said that it would be one

of the happenings of the near future.

The following guests were present:  Governor and Mrs.

Bushnell, Judge and Mrs. Spear, Dr. and Mrs. Edgar Hatton,

Mr. and Mrs. B. D. Hills, Hon. and Mrs. F. S. Monnett, Dr. L. C.

Herrick, Frank Henry Howe, D. C. Baldwin, Mrs. Hartsough,

Hon. Tod B. Galloway, John J. Janney, Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Bar-

low, Mr. and Mrs. Frank E. Kalb, Hon. and Mrs. W. D. Guilbert,

Miss Clara Howe, William G. Pengelly, A. H. Smythe, Miss

Rita Randall, Miss Nellie Hayden, Hon. D. J. Ryan, W. H. Jen-

nings, Col. J. Linn Rodgers, Prof. Warren K. Moorehead, Mr.

and Mrs. E. F. Wood, Mr. and Mrs. M. E. Lovejoy, Professor

and Mrs. J. A. Shawan, General George B. Wright, Rev.

A. A. E. Taylor, Dr. and Mrs. William E. Moore, Pres-

ident James H. Canfield, Dr. and Mrs. Washington Gladden,

Dr. Gard, Dr. C. C. Shepherd, Hon. C. C. Waddle, Chillicothe;

Israel Williams, Hamilton; Senator Whittlesey, Senator James R.

Garfield, Mentor; General Roeliff Brinkerhoff, Mansfield; Cyrus

Platt, Delaware; Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Todd, L. Backus, Bishop B.

• 17
 

308      Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

W. Arnett, Wilberforce; Rev. H. A. Thompson, Dayton; Gerard

Fowke, Hon. D. L. Sleeper, Athens; R. D. Jacobs, Senator and

Mrs. Ely, Mr. and Mrs. G. F. Bareis, Canal Winchester; Mr. and

Mrs. R. E. Hills, Delaware; Mr. and Mrs. E. O. Randall.

 

 

 

PURCHASE OF FORT ANCIENT.

As the records of the Society kept by the previous Secretary

contain little or no account of the first purchase of Fort Ancient,

a detailed statement is here made, that it may be permanently

recorded.

In order that the property of Fort Ancient, then in the hands

of private parties, might be properly preserved by the State, at

the earnest solicitation of the Society, the Legislature on April

28, 1890, passed an act known as Senate Bill 308 "To provide

for the preservation of Fort Ancient." The provisions of this

bill were as follows:

 

FIRST PURCHASE.

SECTION 1. Be it enacted by the General Assembly of

the State of Ohio, That for the purpose of preserving the pre-

historic earthworks known as Fort Ancient, situate in Warren

county, Ohio, a committee of five shall be appointed, two by the

President of the Senate, two by the Speaker of the House of

Representatives, and one by the Attorney General. Said com-

mittee are hereby authorized in behalf of the State, to purchase

for the State the lands upon which Fort Ancient are (is) located,

or so much thereof as may be necessary, to include all, or the most

important part of said works, not less than one hundred and eighty

acres in the aggregate, at a price not exceeding forty dollars per

acre. Such purchase shall be approved by the Governor and

the Attorney General of the State. The title to such lands must

be approved by the Attorney General of the State before the

same is accepted, and when accepted shall be conveyed to the

State of Ohio, and the deed thereof shall be duly recorded and

deposited with the Auditor of State.

• 18
 

Twelfth Annual Meeting.             309

 

SEC. 2. That for the purpose of carrying out the provisions

of this act, there is hereby appropriated out of any moneys in

the treasury, and not otherwise appropriated, to the credit of

the general revenue fund, the sum of seven thousand two hun-

dred dollars, or so much as may be necessary to purchase said

lands.

SEC. 3. This act shall take effect and be in force from and

after its passage.

A. C. ROBESON,

Speaker pro tern. of the House of Representatives.

WILLIAM V. MARQUIS,

President of the Senate.

Pursuant to this act, a committee of the Legislature and of

the Society visited the property, and it was subsequently pur-

chased, the deed of the grantors to the State being properly

accepted by the State authorities on May 11, 1891, but it de-

veloped that the State, either through some misunderstanding

of the committee acting for the State, or of the immediate parties

between whom the negotiations were perfected, failed to purchase

the entire property of the Fort, and the State came into posses-

sion of only one hundred and eighty acres, embracing the cen-

tral portion of the Fort, and a strip of land immediately east of

the center of the Fort, and leaving unpurchased the south end

of the Fort and the north end, known as the Couden and Ridge

tracts respectively.

SECOND PURCHASE.

Since the time of the first purchase (May 1891) the Society has

urged the Legislature to make a sufficient appropriation to secure

the remainder of the Fort. The Seventy-second General As-

sembly upon a presentation of this matter by the Secretary of

the Society, made an appropriation (April 16, 1896), in the gen-

eral appropriation bill, of the sum of $5,200 (see 92d Ohio Laws,

174), for the "purchase of remaining portion of Fort Ancient."

This sum was deemed sufficient at the time, as at the same price

per acre paid for the previous tract, it would secure the remain-

ing portions that were desired, and land at this date (1896), if

changed at all, was thought worth less than a few years

• 19
 

310      Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

ago. Upon an attempt by the Secretary and a committee to

negotiate with the owners for the portions desired, it was found

that the Couden strip, at the south end of the Fort, consisted of

85 acres embracing the Fort proper, and some 22 acres immedi-

ately east of and without the center of the Fort. This property

the proprietors would not part with at a price less than fifty

dollars an acre, or $5,200 for the entire amount consisting of one

hundred and five acres more or less. As to the strip at the north

end, consisting of some twelve acres, known as the Ridge prop-

erty, it had been purchased, as was claimed, by a corporation

for the purpose of erecting thereon a summer hotel, plans for

which had been drawn and advertisements for the sale of lots

adjacent to the hotel, published in various papers. This com-

pany, known as the Fort Ancient Hotel Company, demanded

some three thousand dollars for the property, with the prospective

privilege of completing the hotel. The securing of the Ridge prop-

erty on such a basis by the Society, for the State, was of course

out of the question, and negotiations proceeded no further with

those parties. After due consultation by the Secretary of the

Society with the Auditor of State and the Attorney General, it

was decided that in accordance with the opinion rendered by

Attorney General Monnett, the State, through the Society, could,

under the provisions of the appropriation, purchase the Couden

tract, expending therefor the total amount appropriated ($5,200),

and leaving the Ridge tract still unpurchased. This purchase

was accordingly made, the abstract and deed for the Couden

tract being approved by the proper State officers, December 5,

1896. This purchase is indicated on the plat, a copy of which

is herewith printed. This leaves unpurchased the Ridge tract

of about twelve acres immediately north of the Fort Ancient and

Clarksville pike, and embracing the embankments at that end of

the Fort. In addition to this, during the negotiations made for

the purchase of the Couden tract, it was discovered that there

is about one acre of land cutting into the Fort in a wedge-shape

manner, on the west side of the center of the Fort, belonging to

the adjacent outside property of Mr. Poor. It is desirable that

the State obtain entire possession of the Fort in due time by pur-

chases of the Ridge tract and the Poor wedge. In the negotia-

• 20
 

Twelfth Annual Meeting.             311

 

tions for the purchase of the Couden tract, the Secretary of the

Society was materially assisted by the Hon. Alexander Boxwell,

and Messrs. Moore and Bareis, trustees of the Society, and Mr.

D. W. Humphreys, representative of the grantors of the Couden

tract.

 

 

CARE OF FORT ANCIENT.

The committee, with Rev. William E. Moore as chairman

and superintendent, having the custody and care of Fort Ancient

in charge, have diligently and faithfully performed its work. The

funds appropriated by the State for this special purpose have been

profitably expended. Several visits during the year have been

made to the fort by the chairman and other members of the Ex-

ecutive Committee,and personal supervision has been given to the

repair and preservation of this famous prehistoric spot. On

August 1, 1896, the contract, which the Society had with Messrs.

Moorehead and Cowen, as to the custody of the fort terminated,

and on the 19th day of September, 1896, a new contract was

made with Mr. Warren Cowen, as the immediate party to take

charge of and have certain uses of the property of the fort. This

contract dates back to August 1, 1896, and is to continue for three

years, terminating August 1, 1899. Mr. Cowen has proved,

through two years experience, to be a most reliable and com-

petent man for this work, as is shown by the report of Dr. Moore,

chairman of the committee on Fort Ancient, which report is

herewith submitted.

 

REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON FORT ANCIENT.

COLUMBUS, OHIO, Dec. 20, 1896.

To E. O. Randall, Secretary:

My Dear Sir:-The sub-committee on Fort Ancient, on No-

vember 14, 1896, inspected the work done by Warren Cowen,

by direction of the Executive Committee. They found the work

done satisfactory.

The ground cleared of undergrowth last year had been care-

fully gone over and the new growth of sprouts and weeds cut

• 21
 

312       Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

off. The tile sewer drains of last year were found to be in perfect

order, carrying the accumulations of water in the low places

inside the walls through and beyond them. The washes within

the walls, which last year were stopped by dams of stone and

logs, were found to have done their work so far effectually, and

to need only care from year to year, reinforcing these dams to

close the openings completely. The very serious wash and open-

ing made years ago on the eastern side of the fort to let out the

accumulated water, has been effectually stopped. A sewer drain

of tile put in and the wall brought up to its original height. No

attempt otherwise has been made to restore the walls. Nor is it

contemplated, save as the result of the completion of the plans

now pursued for stopping the washes and draining the ponds.

There being no water for drinking within the walls, other

than the well at the house near the entrance, the Executive Com-

mittee directed a well and pump to be put in where it would be

convenient for the use of visitors. Mr. Cowen was directed to

contract for and superintend the work.

A well has been driven in the lower fort in the grove which

will be most probably preferred for excursion gatherings in the

fort. The well is 107 feet in depth, with an iron pump in steel

casing, and yields an abundant supply of pure water.

The field in corn last year has been sown with wheat and

seeded with grass.

Additional work in clearing away the undergrowth, dead

and fallen trees, etc., on the lines of last year has been satisfactorily

done. The aim of the committee has been, and is, to clear grad-

ually the whole property, both within and without the walls, of

all undergrowth, so as to give everywhere a clear view of this

wonderful work; to leave the forest trees and, so far as possible,

to get the whole in grass, making a beautiful park, worthy of the

State and of the Society. To accomplish this result at no distant

day, we believe that a comparatively small appropriation from

year to year will suffice and that in a few years the property will

pay its own expenses.          Respectfully,

WM. E. MOORE, Chairman.

• 22
 

Twelfth Annual Meeiing.             313

 

WORK OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.

The Executive Committee has been most faithful, efficient

and indefatigable in its supervision of the affairs of the Society,

in its efforts to protect its interests, promote the objects of the

Society and economically expend the funds placed at the disposal

of the Society by the appropriation of the Legislature. The

committee as a whole has held ten regular meetings on the fol-

lowing dates: February 28, March 3, April 7, May 5, July 6,

August 17, September 12, October 12, December 8, January 14,

Special meetings of the Finance Committee, Committee on Fort

Ancient and Committee on Library and Museum were held at

various times, and never before in the history of the Society have

its officers and trustees shown so much interest in, or devoted so

much time to, the affairs of the Society. Every detail of the

work in the Society has been directed by the Executive Commit-

tee, or at least been carefully scrutinized by it.

The Committee on Museum and Library makes the follow-

ing report:

 

REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON MUSEUM AND LIBRARY.

COLUMBUS, OHIO, Dec. 20, 1896.

To E. O. Randall, Secretary:

DEAR SIR:-The past year has been one of marked improve-

ment in the museum of the Society. Heretofore the specimens

owned by or loaned to the Society and those of the Ohio State

University were scattered among the different cases belonging

to both institutions; the Curator could readily tell to which col-

lection each specimen belonged, but visitors found it difficult to

identify one from the other collection. Then came the thousands

of specimens secured during the year, as a result of the "field

work"; of donations; of purchases and exchanges of extra rare

articles which necessitated relics being placed two and in some

instances three tiers deep, thus hiding many from view. Five (5)

handsome new cases, with a display space of some 400 square

feet, have just been placed in position; these, in addition to the

space formerly occupied by the university collection, have per-

• 23
 

314      Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

mitted a proper display and arrangement.  So that now all the

specimens are plainly and neatly numbered and a type-written

catalogue made and the specimens so separated that visitors have

no difficulty in distinguishing the collections of the Society. To

one not having seen the collection for a year there will appear

a most marked evolution. From a "lot of relics" there has grown

up the beginning of a "personnel" which it is hoped will develop

to such a degree that the students can trace the rise and progress

of the stone age in all its features as found in our State. Many

historic and pioneer documents and other valuable articles have

been added to the museum and properly labeled and catalogued.

Of the library not so flattering a report can be given. On

account of the lack of book-cases and suitable room our books

and pamphlets are nearly all stored in boxes. Many maps and

charts are also stored away for lack of proper display space. It

is hoped that the arrangements now nearly consummated to

occupy an alcove in the Ohio State Library rooms will give the

Society at least temporary quarters to place its valuable library

at the disposal of those who desire to use it. The great need of

the library (this also applies to the museum) is proper quarters

in the Capitol building.

Respectfully submitted,

GEO. F. BAREIS, Chairman.

 

 

 

PUBLICATIONS.

The Society has now in press, and will probably have issued

by the time this report is printed, the fifth volume of its publica-

tion of documents and papers. This volume comprising some

five hundred pages, with maps and illustrations, will prove one

of the most valuable yet issued by the Society. Its main feature

is a history of the land title to the State of Ohio, commencing

with the original land charters by the English kings to the colo-

nial companies, and tracing the abstract of title from mother

country sources to the establishment of the boundary lines of

the State of Ohio and the formation of the State Constitu-

tion of 1802. This volume also contains a full and interesting

• 24
 

Twelfth Annual Meeting.              315

 

account of the work done by the Society during the past year

in archaeological research and explorations, with illustrations.

The Society has now published, not including the extensive report

of the Society's exhibit at Chicago (80 pages, 1894), five volumes

of interesting, valuable matter, pertaining to Ohio, its history,

biography and archaeology. Most of this material has been

either originally prepared or exclusively preserved by the Society,

and the work of the Society in this line alone is sufficient reason

for its being and cause for ample support by the State. These

publications are in great demand by the leading historical socie-

ties and libraries, not only of the United States, but even those

in Europe. These books are all in well preserved plates. Sec-

ond editions have already been required of the first three volumes

and no doubt a second edition of volume four will soon be de-

manded.

 

 

LIBRARY AND EXCHANGES.

The Society is in constant correspondence with the other

State societies and the leading historical societies of the country.

With all these a system of exchange of publications is established,

and a large and valuable library is in this manner being accu-

mulated-a library which can be obtained in no other way, and

which will be of inestimable interest and value to all who wish

to consult this class of literature. The State of Ohio has been

most negligent in collecting and preserving historical material

pertaining to Ohio. Our Society is doing what it can to assist

in accumulating an Ohio historical library.

In accordance with the instructions of the trustees at the

last annual meeting (February, 1896), the Secretary has had kept

a Society Scrap Book in which are carefully preserved articles and

newspaper clippings from the leading papers of the State on

all subjects bearing upon the purpose and aims of the Society.

• 25
 

316       Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

QUARTERS FOR THE SOCIETY.

More than ever must the Secretary urge the great necessity

of the Society for adequate quarters for the placing and preser-

vation of its property, and facilities for its work. The Society

is very much hampered by its lack of a "local habitation." The

archaeological collections of the Society are now located in Orton

building of the Ohio State University, upon the second or gal-

lery floor of the museum, where the University authorities have

generously accorded us such space as they can spare. Our

library is mostly packed in boxes in the basement rooms of the

same building, and in the office of the Treasurer. The State

of Ohio cannot afford to ignore the wants of the Historical and

Archaeological Society in this matter. As has been suggested

elsewhere in this report, the State Library Commission have

offered us an alcove in the State Library, which we may occupy

until permanent quarters are accorded us, and it is fully expected

that when the new addition to the State House is built, ample

quarters for our exclusive use will be provided in some excellent

portion of the present building. Many valuable donations of

books, documents and specimen collections are only waiting to

come into the possession of the Society when it has proper and

safe quarters to receive them. The Society has grown in the value

and extent of its work and its reputation till it is recognized as

being in the front rank of similar State socieies, and our great

State cannot do otherwise than liberally promote its progress.

No State can surpass Ohio for wealth of material in the line of

Archaeology, Biography and History. The Ohio State Archae-

ological and Historical Society is the only State agency for the

collecting and preserving of this wealth. It should be afforded

every means and facility required for the full accomplishment of

its purpose.

• 26
 

Twelfth Annual Meeting.                     317

 

 

TREASURER'S REPORT.

 

FEBRUARY 1, 1896 TO FEBRUARY 1, 1897.

 

RECEIPTS.

 

Balance on hand February 1, 1896,                                                             .        .                         $ 328 82

Membership Dues,                           .                        .                     .                         .                                        96 00

Banquet Tickets,                                                       ..                    .                                        58 00

Sale of Picks,                                                              . . . .  . . . . . ..                   .                       .60

From State Treasurer for Current Expenses,       .          .                                    1,700 00

"    "          " Publications,                          .                     .                         .                         .              349 04

" Field Work,                                .                 .        .                         826 30

"   "     " Care of Fort Ancient,                  .                            .                                 501 55

"Purchase of Fort Ancient, .                                   5,200 00

Interest on Permanent Fund, .                               .                                                                                            29 00

Total,   .    .                 .              .    .                   $9,089 66

 

 

DISBURSEMENTS.

 

Purchase Portion of Fort Ancient,       .              ..                    $ 5,200 00

Improvements at Fort Ancient,                                                                    .                                 468 10

Expenses Incident to Care and Purchase,                .                                53 10

Field Work,        .    .      .826 30

Five (5) Cases for Specimens at Museum, .    ..             270 00

Volume 4, Balance in full,   .        ..                                  371 50

Binding Publications and Miscellaneous Books, .   .                                                 78 95

Books Purchased,   .                                .                         .                                                                                                                     49 84

Job Printing,                                              .                         .                            .                                                                 108 75

Postage Account,                                                   .                     .                         .                         .                   .                                                                                   80 57

Salary Account,                                                       .          .          .                 .                                                1,146 67

Stenographer, Balance for 1895,                                               ..                        25 00

Annual Banquet, February, 1896,                                            .    .                                              80 00

Supplies and Sundries,           .                                                                                                       47 10

Clerical Work at Museum,                               .                         20 00

Railroad Fare Mileage (Trustees),          .                                                                          17 31

Express, Drayage, ete.,        ..                                                      10 95

Balance in Treasury February 1, 1897,                        .                                                                             235 52

Total,        .                              .          .    .    .       . $9,089 66

S. S. RICKLY, Treasurer.

EDWIN F. WOOD, Assistant Treasurer.

• 27
 

318      Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

OUTSIDE WORK OF THE SOCIETY.

In no year of the history of the Society has so much been

done throughout the State to bring the work and value of the

Society to the attention of the citizens. This has been done by

distribution of literature of the Society and by lectures at various

points, especially by Mr. Moorehead, whose report of his work

speaks for itself, and which is herewith added in full.

 

 

MR. MOOREHEAD'S REPORT.

COLUMBUS, OHIO, Dec. 30, 1896.

E. O. Randall, Secretary:

Sir:-I have the honor to report that the collections of the

Society have been more than doubled during the year 1896, and

that-taken as a whole-the growth of the Museum has been

exceedingly gratifying. In accordance with the wishes of the

Society, my time during the past year has been exclusively oc-

cupied in field work, and when not in the field in conducting cor-

respondence with numerous individuals throughout the State,

with a view to procuring from them collections to be preserved

by the Society. We have added something like 22,000 speci-

mens, about three-fourths of which are the property of the So-

ciety, the others are loaned collections. Fifteen lectures have

been deliverd in various cities of Ohio, and at all of these the

literature of the Society was distributed. I am persuaded that

we will reap great benefits from the advertising which we have

had. Nearly one hundred county and city papers have kindly

published editorials for us calling attention to the necessity of

preserving archaeological and historical specimens. By means

of this cooperation on the part of the press of the State, we have

received a number of valuable donations.

Of most importance is our State Archaeological Map. There

are now upon it nearly three thousand marks, representing about

six thousand prehistoric village sites, mounds, fortifications and

enclosures. They are recorded by townships and sections, and

this map will be of great value to future generations when most

of these structures have become obliterated.

• 28
 

Twelfth Annual Meeting.             319

 

The Society has been heartily commended by several Sci-

entific institutions of the East for undertaking the production of

this map.

Nearly all the summer was devoted to field work, and my

assistants and myself covered the territory from the head waters

of the Muskingum to the Ohio River, up the Scioto to Rich-

mondale and along the Ohio from the mouth of Brush Creek to

Ironton.

A total of thirty-two tumuli and mounds were explored. In

some of these we found copper plates and ear ornaments, pipes,

mica and ocean shells, beads and stone tomahawks, etc. Many

perfect crania were secured, and as mound skulls are exceeding

rare in museums, they will be of great value in the study of the

physical characteristics of our ancient tribes.

The famous mound at McConnelsville was thoroughly ex-

plored, and many interesting remains found therein.

The collections of the Society are all in order, properly

labeled and numbered, and are mounted according to the locality

(river valleys) in which they were found.

I would suggest the advisability of sending some one

through the northern and central portions of the State next

summer in order to locate accurately the several thousand an-

cient remains which are not upon our map, and which we can-

not secure by correspondence.

People all over the State are continually writing to the Mu-

seum with reference to the proper names, uses, etc., of speci-

mens in their possession; for information on the mounds and

earthworks, and for literature upon the subject. This is evi-

dence of the growing interest in our Society, and that it is

now regarded as an educational, and if I may be permitted to use

the term-an authoritative society, from which can be obtained

assistance and information heretofore only obtained from the

Eastern museums.

At the present rate of growth more commodious quarters

will soon be absolutely necessary for our collections.

Although the appropriation has been inadequate for the

work assumed, it is fair to state we have added more specimens

• 29
 

320      Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

than some institutions which have a greater revenue. I bespeak

for the Museum larger appropriations.

In conclusion I beg to thank you and the trustees for the

hearty support you have given me.

WARREN KING MOOREHEAD, Curator.

 

 

 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT.

In closing this report I desire in behalf of the trustees of

the Society to express our appreciation of the courteous consid-

eration and friendly support accorded the Society by Governor

Bushnell, Attorney General Monnett and Assistant Attorney Gen-

eral Lott, and also to President Canfield and Professor Edward

Orton of the Ohio State University.

Personally I acknowledge my indebtedness, for valua-

bles assistance, in the discharge of the duties of my office, to the

officers of the Society, and particularly to the members of the

Executive Committee of the Trustees.

Respectfully submitted,

E. O. RANDALL, Secretary.

Columbus, Ohio, February 1, 1897.

 

 

 

NECROLOGY.

Hon. William J. Gilmore, formerly judge of the Ohio

Supreme Court, a life member and for many years a trustee

of the Society died at his residence in Columbus, August 9th,

1896. He was buried at Eaton, Ohio, August 11th, the Society

being represented by the secretary at the ceremonies of inter-

ment. In the decease of Judge Gilmore the Society lost a most

valued member and a most faithful and wise counsellor and

officer.

• 30
 

Twelfth Annual Meeting.              321

 

ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION- MARCH 13, 1885.

The undersigned citizens of Ohio, having associated them-

selves together, and desiring to form a corporation not for profit,

under the laws of the said State of Ohio, do hereby subscribe and

acknowledge the following articles of incorporation:

1. The name of such corporation shall be The Ohio State

Archaeological and Historical Society.

2. Said corporation shall be located and its principle busi-

ness transacted at the City of Columbus, County of Franklin,

and State of Ohio.

3. Said Society is formed for the purpose of promoting a

knowledge of archaeology and history, especially of Ohio, by

establishing and maintaining a library of books, manuscripts,

maps, charts, etc., properly pertaining thereto; a museum of pre-

historic relics and natural or other curiosities or specimens of

art or nature promotive of the objects of the Association-said

library and museum to be open to the public on reasonable

terms-and by courses of lectures and publications of books,

papers and documents touching the subjects so specified, with

power to receive and hold gifts and devises of real and personal

estate for the benefit of such Society, and generally to exercise

all the powers legally and properly pertaining thereto.

4. Said Society has no capital stock.

The Articles of Incorporation were signed by twenty-eight

persons.

 

HISTORY OF THE OHIO STATE ARCHAEOLOGICAL

AND HISTORICAL SOCIETY.

During the year 1875, an archaeological society was formed

at General Brinkerhoff's home, in Mansfield, Ohio. This society,

through the efforts of General Brinkerhoff, received an appro-

priation from the State of Ohio of two thousand five hundred

dollars, to be expended in making an exhibit at the Centennial

Exposition at Philadelphia. Prof. John T. Short, of the Ohio

State University, was secretary of the society, and it flourished

• 31
 

322       Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

under his secretaryship until his untimely death, when the society

became dormant and practically inoperative. Governor Hoadly,

who took an active interest in all matters pertaining to the arch-

aeology and history of the State, upon his accession to office con-

ferred with Mr. A. A. Graham and suggested a revival of the old

society. A meeting for the purpose of carrying into effect this

suggestion was called to convene at the Secretary of State's office,

on the twelfth day of February, 1885. A number of prominent

gentlemen, including leading citizens, scholars and professors

from various parts of the State, responded to this call, and de-

cided to extend to all persons in the State interested in the for-

mation of such a society, an invitation to meet on the twelfth day

of March following, at Columbus, Ohio. In response to the cir-

culars sent out, some sixty gentlemen from all parts of Ohio, rep-

resenting the various departments of scholarship, convened on

the day specified in the Library Room of the State Capitol. The

meeting having been called to order by Hon. S. S. Rickly, the

Hon. Allen G. Thurman was made President, and Mr. A. A.

Graham elected Secretary.* This convention continued in session

for two days and resulted in perfecting an organization known

as The Ohio State Archaeological and Historical Society, which

was duly incorporated on the 13th day of March, 1885. The

Articles of Incorporation succinctly set forth the purposes and

aims of the Society.

The following have served as Presidents of the Society since

its organization: Allen G. Thurman, Francis C. Sessions, Ruth-

erford B. Hayes and Roeliff Brinkerhoff.

For twelve years the Society has faithfully pursued the lines

of study and investigation for which it was organized, and has

held regular annual meetings at Columbus. In that time it has

accumulated a valuable collection of relics and intiquities, now

consisting of over 30,000 specimens, mostly archaeological in char-

acter, but embracing also many papers and articles of historical

value. This collection has been catalogued and arranged in

cases, and now occupies temporary quarters in the Museum of

*Mr. Graham occupied the office of secretary until December, 1893,

when ill health compelled him to move to the West. He died in Albu-

querque, N. M., in February, 1896.

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Twelfth Annual Meeting.             323

 

Orton Hall at the Ohio State University. The library of the

Society, which numbers several hundred volumes of considerable

value, is being constantly augmented by exchanges and other-

wise, is now placed in an alcove of the State Library. The Mu-

seum in Orton Hall is accessible to visitors on each week day,

between the hours of 9:00 a. m. and 5:00 p. m.

The Society's archaeological collection was placed on ex-

hibition at the Centennial Exposition of the Ohio Valley, 1888,

and also at the World's Columbian Exposition at Chicago, 1893,

where it was acknowledged the finest and most complete display

of the kind made by any of the States.

 

MEMBERSHIP.

Article II, of the Constitution, provides for membership to

this Society as follows:

SECTION 1. The membership of this Society shall be

divided into four classes, designated as follows: Life Members,

Active Members, Corresponding Members, and Honorary Mem-

bers. Application for membership shall be made to the Secre-

tary of the Society and by him referred to the Executive Com-

mittee. Upon the approval of the Executive Committee, such

applicants shall be declared members.

SEC. 2. The payment at any one time of twenty-five dollars

($25.00) to the Society shall constitute the person so paying a

life member. Life members shall be exempt from all further

dues, and shall be entitled to all the privileges of active member-

ship. Any person who shall make a donation to the Society,

the value of which shall be determined by the Trustees, to be

not less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00), shall be entitled to life

membership. Said life membership payments shall constitute

a permanent fund to be invested at the discretion of the Execu-

tive Committee. The income only of this fund shall be used

by the Society for such purposes as the Executive Committee

may direct.

SEC. 3. Active members shall be residents of Ohio and

shall pay in advance an annual fee of three dollars ($3.00). They

shall be entitled to vote and hold office. They shall receive free

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324       Ohio Arch. and His. Society Publications.

 

all publications of the Society and have free access to the museum

and library.

SEC. 4. Corresponding members may be residents of any

locality and shall be persons who take an interest in the Society,

and its objects, and are willing to aid it by representing its in-

terests and securing donations for its museum and library. Sec-

retaries of historical or kindred societies whose publications are

furnished to this Society, may be constituted corresponding

members.

SEC. 5. Honorary members shall be persons distinguished

for scientific and literary attainments, particularly in the depart-

ment of archaeology and history.

About one hundred and twenty-five persons have become

life members of the Society and some three hundred have at

various times been enrolled as active members.

 

GOVERNMENT OF THE SOCIETY.

The government of the Society is vested in a board of twenty-

one (21) trustees, fifteen of whom are elected by ballot by the

Society at its annual meetings. They are divided into three

classes, five only being elected each year to serve for three years

each from the time of their election, or until their successors are

elected and qualified. The other six trustees necessary to com-

plete the number of twenty-one (21), are appointed by the Gover-

nor of Ohio, as provided by the legislative enactment of April

16, 1891, two to be appointed each year to serve for the period

of three years, or until their successors are appointed and

qualified.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL DEPARTMENT.

Particularly is the Society strong in archaeological research.

No State in the Union is so rich in archaeological resources, con-

sisting of mounds, forts, graves and monuments of prehistoric

periods.

This department of the Society is under the direction of

Prof. Warren K. Moorehead. Mr. Moorehead is Professor of

Archaeology in the Ohio State University, Fellow of the Amer-

ican Association for the Advancement of Science, and is a most

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Twelfth Annual Meeting.             325

 

accomplished scholar on this subject, being the author of "Primi-

tive Man in Ohio," and a complete work on "Fort Ancient."

The Society is the custodian of Fort Ancient, the largest,

best preserved and most interesting remains of its character now

extant. Models of this fort are in some of the leading museums

of Europe, and it is often visited and studied by distinguished

scholars, not only of other states but of foreign countries.

The Society, through a corps of explorers, is doing splendid

and valuable work in examining and making permanent record

of the innumerable points of archaeological interest in the State.

An archaeological map is being prepared, which will designate

the location of all important mounds, monuments, graves, etc.,

within Ohio. It is estimated that these places of interest number

no less than fifteen thousand.

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