Fort Hill State Memorial

Fort Hill State Memorial is an archaeological earthwork in Highland County featuring walls made of stone and soil that surround a flat hilltop. The structure extends for several kilometers and encloses more than 30 acres, while rising about 500 feet above the surrounding valley.

The Hopewell people constructed this earthwork approximately 2000 years ago as a ceremonial structure for religious purposes. The construction shows careful planning with intentional openings integrated into the wall system.

This place served as a gathering spot where the Hopewell people came together for religious ceremonies and spiritual practices. The layout of the walls today still shows how the space was arranged for these important community events.

The site is located along State Route 41 near Sinking Spring and is managed by preserve staff. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear since the ground is uneven and walking paths cross the landscape.

The walls measure about 30 feet wide at the base and vary in height from about 20 to 50 feet. These dimensions are noteworthy because they reveal how much labor and coordination the Hopewell people invested in this large ceremonial complex.

Location: Highland County

GPS coordinates: 39.11310,-83.40630

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:05