The Portsmouth Spartan Mural on Portsmouth's famed Floodwall Murals. In NFL history, some teams shine brightly while others fade into obscurity. Among the forgotten franchises is the Portsmouth Spartans, a spirited team from Portsmouth, Ohio, that showcased the tough and passionate essence of early professional football. In this blog post, we will explore the rich history of the Portsmouth Spartans, including their formation, remarkable achievements, and their eventual fate in the ever-changing world of the NFL. The Birth of the Portsmouth Spartans The Portsmouth Spartans were established in 1929, stirring excitement in a burgeoning professional football scene. A group of local athletes, driven by a love for the game and a desire to entertain their community, formed the team. When the Spartans joined the National Football League (NFL) in 1930, they brought thrilling entertainment to Portsmouth, a city with a population of approximately 20,000 at the time. This small-town team quickly became a source of pride for locals, demonstrating a tenacious spirit in their pursuit of success. Aerial View of Spartan Municipal Stadium (c. 1955).: One time home of the NFL's Portsmouth Spartans, Municipal (Universal) Stadium, Portsmouth, Ohio (c. 1955). ~ Source: Image courtesy of the Ackerman Collection, Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center, Portsmouth, Ohio. Accession No. 1996.2.38. ~ Date: c. 1955 The Spartans' Stunning Performance In their early years, the Spartans made a significant impact. The 1932 season was particularly remarkable, as the team finished with an impressive 11-3 record. This placed them among the elite contenders in the league, capturing national attention. One of the highlights of this season was the famous "Iron Man Game" against the Green Bay Packers. On December 4th, 1932, these teams clashed in a hard-fought battle that is still remembered today. The Spartans won the game 19-0, but it was their resilience that shone through. Their performance earned them respect, solidifying their status in the league and highlighting their competitive nature. The Iron Men of Portsmouth The Portsmouth Spartans were not just a football team; they were a tight-knit family. The camaraderie among players gave rise to the nickname “Iron Men.” This term referred to their ability to endure long games without substitutions, a necessity due to the team's limited roster. This dedication and commitment to each other created a bond that made them a memorable part of football history. Their legacy of resilience has inspired future generations of athletes, setting a high standard for perseverance in the sport. For many Spartan fans, the "Iron Man" game is remembered as the greatest football match in Portsmouth's sports history, where the "Purple Herd" demonstrated they were the top NFL team in 1932. They defeated their rivals, the reigning "world champions," preventing the Packers from securing their fourth NFL title, and positioned themselves to either claim the championship for Portsmouth or tie for first with the Chicago Bears. At the conclusion of the 1932 regular season, with the Bears and Spartans tied for first place, the teams agreed to compete in the inaugural postseason NFL championship game, a precursor to what is today known as the Super Bowl. Due to cold weather and concerns about poor ticket sales, the game was moved indoors, marking it as the first indoor game in league history. Unfortunately, the Portsmouth Spartans would fall to the Chicago Bears 9-0 in the championship game. Nonetheless, all of this NFL history was made possible by the Spartans' remarkable victory over the Packers in the Iron Man Game and thus cementing them in the NFL books as literal game changers. Potsy Clark, Harry Snyder, and the NFL Spartans of 1932: Top (from left to right): Head Coach Potsy Clark, Father Lumpkin, Glenn Presnell, Gene Alford, Dutch Clark, Mule Wilson, John Cavosie, Ace Gutowsky, Trainer Doc Neff, and Business Manager Harry Snyder. Bottom (from left to right): Harry Ebding, George Christensen, Buster Mitchell, Ox Emerson, Clare Randolph, Ray Davis, Maury Bodenger, John Wager, Am Rascher, and Bill McKalip. The NFL Spartans of 1932 were “known wide and near,” according to the Lancaster Eagle-Gazette, as the “17 iron men” because “they have surged to the top with only six men available for substitutions." The Portsmouth Daily Times published this team photo on the morning of the Iron Man Game (4 December 1932) and, in 1994, Robert Dafford incorporated it into his iconic floodwall mural.The original photograph captured the "17 iron men," along with Spartan Coach Potsy Clark, Trainer Doc Neff, and Business Manager Harry Snyder (the largest share owner of the Spartans). 60-minute men were not unusual in the NFL before the 1940s, when league rules changed, allowing for unlimited substitutions and the fielding of two separate offensive and defensive teams. League rules capped rosters at twenty-two and placed limitations on substitutions. The expense of carrying two teams of players was cost-prohibitive during the Depression years. As the 1932 season wore on, Potsy Clark cut his squad to seventeen Spartans. ~ Source: "Packers, Spartans Eager for Fray," Portsmouth Sunday Times, Portsmouth Historic Newspaper Collection, Clark Memorial Library, Shawnee State University, Portsmouth, Ohio. ~ Date: 4 December 1932 The Glory Days and Unexpected Downfall Following the incredible 1932 season by the Portsmouth Spartans, enthusiastic fans filled the stands, creating a strong community connection. However, it wasn't enough and the landscape of professional sports began to shift dramatically. In 1934, the harsh realities of maintaining a professional franchise in a small town became evident. Financial struggles worsened due to the Great Depression, which led the team to make a tough decision. In that same year, the franchise was sold to a group from Detroit, and the team was rebranded as the Detroit Lions. While this move provided financial relief, it also marked the end of the Portsmouth Spartans and left behind a bittersweet legacy. Exciting Plans for Stadium Renovation and NCAA Team Addition Shawnee State University is set to renovate the stadium, enhancing its role as a vibrant center for athletic events and community gatherings. This historic venue will not only continue to support the university's sports teams but will also eventually host its own NCAA football team in 2028. Additionally, the stadium remains home to the Port City Spartans, a minor league football team that brings excitement and pride to Portsmouth. The city of Portsmouth honors its historical football legacy through annual events organized by the Portsmouth Football Historical Society. These celebrations ensure that the memory of the Spartans continues to thrive, introducing new generations to the proud history of their local team and its connection to Shawnee State University. For sports enthusiasts eager to explore this captivating history, numerous avenues are available. From memorabilia to documentaries and reunions, uncovering the rich legacy of the Portsmouth Spartans and their ties to the university is like discovering hidden treasures within the larger narrative of sports in the region. A Lasting Impact The Portsmouth Spartans may no longer grace the field, but their legacy as an integral part of NFL history lives on. This team from Ohio embodies the heart and soul of American football—highlighting themes of resilience, teamwork, and spirited competition that create lasting memories. Exploring the story of the Portsmouth Spartans goes beyond simply acknowledging a forgotten franchise; it invites us to embrace the essence of sports—passion, struggle, and triumph. So, the next time you reflect on NFL history, take a moment to remember the Iron Men of Portsmouth, who made a significant impact on the football landscape and instilled pride in their community. Check out this short documentary below for a more comprehensive summary of the Portsmouth Spartans and the legacy they left on the NFL. For more in-depth information and a historical tour of the Portsmouth Spartans, check out this tour on the Scioto Historical App: https://sciotohistorical.org/tours/show/24

Are you looking to create a new business, especially one that is related to travel and tourism? You may want to check out the Women's Business Center of Central Appalachia (WBC) with the Economic Community and Development Institute (ECDI). Contrary to the name, their services are not just for women, rather they are open to anyone who is interested in creating or updating their business. The WBC of Central Appalachia at Shawnee State University (SSU) is a one-stop resource that empowers business owners in the Tri-State area to create a sustainable business. By partnering with organizations like the Portsmouth-Scioto County Visitors Bureau and the Portsmouth Area Chamber of Commerce, we can offer numerous resources to help businesses start-up, stay-up, and scale-up at no cost to you.  If you are in the process of starting a business and are not sure where to start, give us a call. We can help you with creating an LLC, legal documents, financial questions, and more. We have two Certified Business Advisors on staff ready to answer any questions you may have.  Our training series covers everything businesses need to know to succeed. We offer virtual lunchtime options every Tuesday and schedule in person training throughout the Tri-State. Our Empower by GoDaddy cohort is a wonderful way for businesses to learn how to create their very own free website.  Access to capital is a struggle for small businesses who are just starting out. Since we are part of ECDI, the number one microlender in the nation, we are also able to help end that struggle for you and help you gain access to the funds you need.  If you would like to see more information about upcoming events, like the Ignite Appalachia Makers Market , please join our WBC of Central Appalachia at SSU Facebook page . Visit their office in Portsmouth for more information about other services that are available in Portsmouth, Ohio. The Women's Business Center of Central Appalachia team. We look forward to hearing from you! Reach out anytime!

When time is of the essence, but your taste buds demand satisfaction, Scioto County has an array of quick bite options that promise flavor-packed experiences. From locally roasted coffee to decadent pastries, this guide will lead you through a culinary journey of quick bites that delight and satisfy. Market Street Cafe 212 Market St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Lunchtime calls for a visit to Market Street Cafe in Portsmouth, where fresh ingredients come together in delightful sandwiches, salads, and wraps. With a commitment to quality and flavor, this eatery provides a quick and satisfying meal that fuels your afternoon adventures. Sarah's Cafe & Bakery 21 Robert Lucas Rd, Lucasville, OH 45648 Nestled in the heart of Lucasville, Sarah's Cafe & Bakery is a charming, modern cafe where the aroma of freshly baked bread and treats meets the comfort of hearty lunches. Savor a flaky croissant with chicken salad, indulge in a specialty coffee, or grab a no bake cookie to go, all crafted with care and precision. Fork & Finger 232 2nd St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Discover the heartwarming embrace of Fork & Finger, a true haven for those seeking the comforts of the South in Scioto County. Their menu showcases cherished Southern dishes, each a delightful journey into flavor and nostalgia. Be sure to save room for their enticing assortment of homemade cakes and pies, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your dining experience. Skyline Family Restaurant at Portsmouth Airport 130 Barklow Rd, Portsmouth, OH, United States, 45662 Skyline Family Restaurant, located at Portsmouth Airport, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can savor homestyle cooking at its finest. Whether you're enjoying a hearty breakfast or a comforting dinner, their menu is filled with classic dishes that make you feel right at home. Oddfellows 526 2nd St., Portsmouth, OH, United States, 45662 Their delicious selection of fresh, seasonally appropriate items will keep you excited to visit and on their toes in anticipation from season to season. Not to mention their custom tiled wood-fired ovens crank out the tastiest pizzas and chicken wings in town. Oddfellows isn’t just a place to fill your appetite— come here to eat AND play! They offer four duckpin bowling lanes and ten arcade games which are a hit for all ages! Pro Tips for Quick Bites Excursion: Time It Right: Check the opening hours of each establishment to ensure they align with your schedule. Customize to Taste: Many of these eateries offer customizable options, so feel free to personalize your order. Local Love: Support local businesses and savor the flavors unique to Scioto County. Plan Ahead: If you're in a hurry, consider calling ahead for takeout or checking their online menus. From morning coffee to midday sustenance and afternoon treats, Scioto County's quick bite options provide a plethora of choices to suit every palate. This guide promises a whirlwind of flavors that embrace both convenience and quality, offering a culinary journey that's as delightful as it is satisfying.

For food enthusiasts, Scioto County, Ohio, is a treasure trove of culinary experiences waiting to be explored. From savory smoked meats to delectable sweets, this day trip guide is designed to take you on a gastronomic adventure through the county's finest eateries, showcasing the flavors and tastes that define this charming region. Morning: Breakfast and Local Flavors Start your food journey with a hearty breakfast at Skyline Family Restaurant . Savor a traditional American breakfast of eggs, bacon, and biscuits and gravy. After breakfast, head to Scent From Heaven Bakery to grab one of their famous glazed croissants (what inspired the cronut craze!). Mid-Morning: Pick-me-Up On your way to or from your outings, drive through Adam's Flying Pig Coffee House for a mid-morning pick-me-up. We recommend their Strawberry Mocha Latte. Lunch: Small Town Delights For a cozy, small town experience, make your way to Market Street Cafe in Portsmouth for lunch. This charming eatery specializes in panini sandwiches and soups that change daily. Enjoy a crisp summer salad, or opt for a savory wrap–we recommend the "Turkey Crunch Wrap," we guarantee you haven't had anything like it before! Afternoon: A Historic Brew After walking the Floodwall Murals or browsing the antique shops in the historic Boneyfiddle District in Portsmouth, stop by The Portsmouth Brewing Company for a break and a locally brewed beer. Since 1843, this historic establishment is still brewing original Portsmouth Brewing Co. recipes from the 1800’s, but have also added some new favorites to their list of handmade craft brewed beer. We recommend the Red Bird Ale. Early Evening: Iconic Dining Wrap up your food-focused day at The Scioto Ribber in Portsmouth, where you can enjoy a memorable dinner in the place where celebrities have dined. Starting out just cooking for friends and family, and now an iconic restaurant, The Scioto Ribber smokes all of their own meats (you'll see the big smokers and piles of hickory wood on your way in). Savor one of their famous steaks along with their mouth-watering sides. We recommend the sweet potato and the German slaw. Evening: Nightcap and Reflection Before bidding farewell to your culinary adventure, unwind with a nightcap at Oddfellows in Portsmouth. This cozy cocktail bar offers a selection of handcrafted drinks that showcase regional spirits and creative mixology. Sip on a Old Fashioned made with Kentucky bourbon from just across the river. From morning treats to iconic dining, Scioto County offers a captivating array of flavors for food enthusiasts to savor. This day trip guide provides just a glimpse of the culinary treasures waiting to be discovered in this charming region. As you explore the diverse eateries and experience the local food scene, you'll undoubtedly gain a deeper appreciation for the tastes and traditions that make Scioto County a true culinary destination.

Calling all food enthusiasts! If you're on the hunt for mouthwatering burgers, smoky BBQ, and a refreshing sip of beer, Scioto County has a lineup of restaurants that promise to satisfy your cravings. From classic flavors to bold twists, this guide will take you on a culinary adventure that celebrates the art of comfort food. The Scioto Ribber 1026 Gallia St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Kick off your journey at The Scioto Ribber in Portsmouth, where BBQ is king. Their tender ribs, succulent pulled pork, and flavorful sauces are a testament to their dedication to perfecting the art of smoked meats. With a relaxed atmosphere and a menu that exudes Southern charm, this eatery is a must-visit for BBQ aficionados. Patties and Pints 546 2nd St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Experience the joy of inventive burgers and craft beer at Patties and Pints in Portsmouth. With a menu that elevates the humble burger to gourmet status, this eatery offers a delightful blend of flavors that cater to diverse palates. Pair your meal with a selection from their extensive craft beer offerings, and enjoy the lively atmosphere that embodies the spirit of Scioto County. Backwoods BBQ Food Truck Check their website for locations and hours Embrace the rustic charm of the Backwoods BBQ Food Truck, where every bite is a journey into smoky goodness. This mobile gem delivers a curated menu of BBQ classics that tantalize your taste buds with authentic flavors and a touch of nostalgia. Smokin' Joe's BBQ Food Truck Check their social media for locations and hours Indulge in the savory delights of Smokin' Joe's BBQ Food Truck, a rolling culinary haven that offers a delicious range of smoked meats, sandwiches, and BBQ platters. With an emphasis on quality ingredients and traditional techniques, this food truck captures the essence of slow-cooked perfection. Hickies Hamburger Inn 3800 Rhodes Ave, New Boston, OH 45662 For a classic taste of Americana, visit Hickies Hamburger Inn in Portsmouth. This beloved diner serves up classic hamburgers and sandwiches that evoke a sense of nostalgia. A visit here is like stepping back in time to enjoy the flavors that have stood the test of generations. The Portsmouth Brewing Company 224 2nd St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Offering a wide selection of craft beers brewed right on site, The Portsmouth Brewing Company is the perfect spot to hang out with friends and family after a challenging mountain bike ride or rejuvenating hike. Ollie's Burgers & BBQ 1619 Chillicothe St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Ollie's Burger & BBQ offers a delectable fusion of two comfort food favorites. Dive into juicy burgers that burst with flavor and relish the rich smokiness of traditional BBQ classics, all within a cozy atmosphere that welcomes you to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience. The Smokehouse Restaurant (located inside Shawnee State Park Lodge) 4404B State Route 125, West Portsmouth, OH 45663 Discover one of Ohio's best-kept secrets! Whether you're craving healthy or hearty, you'll find plenty of choices in the Smokehouse Restaurant. You'll feast on delicious cuisine showcasing the culinary skills of their chef while seated next to one of the best views of the "little smokies" from their dining room windows. Texas Peach Grill 1900 Carey’s Run Pond Crk, West Portsmouth, OH 45663 The name may say Texas Peach, but don't let that fool you! You will need to have a Texas-sized appetite to eat at this grill. They are known for their massive burgers piled high with some delicious fries. You won't go hungry when eating here! Oscar's Restaurant and Lounge (Inside the Holiday Inn in downtown Portsmouth) 711 2nd St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Oscar's has a diverse menu that has something for everyone to enjoy. Enjoy hearty breakfasts to a healthy salad for lunch to a exquisitely prepared meal for dinner. Oscar's has all your needs in one place! Appalachian Artesian Ales 833 White Gravel McDaniel Rd, Minford, OH, 45653 Appalachian Artisan Ales is bringing bold flavors to the breathtaking hills of Scioto County and it might just be the most remote brewery in the state! Tucked inside a rustic farmhouse on the Appalachian plateau, this destination brewery is the passion project of neuroradiologist-turned-brewer Nathan Bennington. Signature pours include Sun Drops , a bold Double IPA brewed with Citra and Mosaic hops—Nathan’s first-ever homebrew and SEQUOIA , a robust Amber Ale with rich notes of toasted caramel and a crisp, dry finish. Great beer and stunning scenery—Scioto County is in for a treat! Pro Tips for a Flavorful Experience: Pair Perfectly: Don't hesitate to ask for beer recommendations that complement your chosen dishes. Savor Slowly: BBQ is all about slow-cooked goodness, so take your time and savor each bite. Variety Galore: Embrace the diversity of flavors, from classic BBQ to innovative burger creations. Local Love: Many of these establishments celebrate local ingredients and flavors unique to the region. From finger-licking BBQ to gourmet burgers and a variety of craft beers, Scioto County's culinary scene celebrates the flavors that comfort and delight. This guide promises a tantalizing journey that pays homage to the art of grilling, smoking, and brewing, ensuring that every bite and sip is a memorable experience.

Like many other cities across Appalachia, Portsmouth, Ohio, faced significant challenges in the 1980s. After losing its primary industries, Portsmouth sank into an economic depression. Adding to this was the impact the Nation’s Opioid Epidemic had, and Portsmouth faced a dire future. But it was the unwavering resilience of its community that became the beacon of hope.

The spirit of Christmas is alive and well in Portsmouth-Scioto County! Check out the blog published by CompassOhio to learn about the fun holiday-themed attractions and events that will surely bring joy to the whole family!

By: Emily Uldrich, Portsmouth Earthworks Researcher and Executive Director, Main Street Portsmouth In Bloom 740-464-0203 www.mspohio.org This mural depicts the Hopewell Culture in the Portsmouth-Scioto County area. Known today as the Portsmouth Earthworks Complex, these earthworks spanned across Scioto County and even across the river into Kentucky. In September 2023, a collection of eight unique Native American sites in various locations in the State of Ohio were inscribed as World Heritage Sites. These sites include Fort Ancient in Oregonia, OH, two sites at the Newark Earthworks in Newark, OH, and five sites that are part of Hopewell Culture National Historical Park in Chillicothe, OH. Collectively, these five sites are known as the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks . None of the above sites are located in Scioto County, but we too, have Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks that you can visit in our area. Discover the Native American history of Scioto County in this handy guide. Scioto County has been a prime location for human settlement since the end of the last Ice Age. The Scioto and Ohio River Conflux provides a bounty of wild game, as well as edible plants, nuts, and berries. These resources attracted Paleo-Indian Culture hunter/gatherers for thousands of years. The presence of Indigenous Cultures persisted in the area through the time when European explorers first made contact with the people of the New World. In the 18th century, the Shawnee Nation operated a popular trading post at Lower Shawnee Town in both Ohio and Kentucky. The Shawnee are thought to have arrived in the area in the 1730s. This mural painted on the floodwall depicts the Shawnee Tribe in the 1700s. Lower Shawnee Town was located in West Portsmouth, Ohio, in and around what is now Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park . Repeated flooding drove the village to the opposite bank of the Ohio River in Kentucky in 1756. By the time the Declaration of Independence was written in 1776, all of the Shawnee were driven out of Lower Shawnee Town. By the early 1800s, the Shawnee were removed from Ohio. The last Native American tribe living in Ohio, the Wyandot, signed a treaty declaring their move to Oklahoma in 1842. The Shawnee Nation is now three federally recognized tribes living on reservations in Oklahoma: The Absentee-Shawnee Tribe , The Eastern Shawnee Tribe , and The Shawnee Tribe . The prehistoric indigenous presence in Scioto County remains today in the form of monumental landscape architecture and artifacts left behind hundreds and even thousands of years in the past. Scioto County is home to what was once the largest prehistoric earthen mound complex in the entire world: The Portsmouth Earthworks ! The majority of the complex is thought to have been created by the Hopewell Culture around 2,000 years ago. The Portsmouth Earthworks were the largest of all Hopewell Culture constructions. The footprint of the Portsmouth Earthworks covered over 25 square miles or over 50,000 acres! These mounds occupied the cities and hilltop ridges of Portsmouth, West Portsmouth, Lucasville, Sciotoville, and Wheelersburg in Ohio, as well as South Portsmouth and South Shore in Kentucky. The center of the complex was the Twin Horseshoe Mounds Enclosure at Mound Park in Portsmouth. Four sets of Parallel Earthen Embankments formed paths of procession leading in the intermediate directions to the satellite elements of the complex. The purpose of this massive construction is thought to have been ceremonial. Though there are a number of burial mounds included in the Portsmouth Earthworks, many of the mounds were used for different purposes. For example, no burials have ever been discovered at Mound Park. There were never any burials reported to be associated with any of the four sets of Parallel Embankments. While some of the mounds served a mortuary purpose, it is thought that additional ceremonies were performed at some Portsmouth Earthworks sites. Astronomical, directional, and seasonal alignments documented in the Portsmouth Earthworks suggest that some components may have functioned as a type of calendar. The Portsmouth Earthworks were altered and repurposed by subsequent prehistoric peoples, including the Intrusive Mound Culture (~AD 700-1000) and the Fort Ancient Culture (~AD 1,000-c.1675). Mound construction is thought to have begun in Scioto County by Archaic Cultures (~8,000-1,000 BC). In fact, Scioto County houses the oldest earthwork in Ohio: The Scioto County Infirmary Mound . This mound is thought to be nearly 6,000 years old! There are a small number of Portsmouth Earthworks sites still in existence today. Mound Park in Portsmouth features the East Twin Horseshoe Mound , the Mound Park Conical Mound , and the so-called Natural Elevation , which is also an earthwork. Mound Park is open to the public. Archaeological testing and monitoring in 2020 during the installation of paved walking paths and lighting at Mound Park uncovered nearly 4,500 Woodland Period (~1,000 BC – AD 1,000) Native American artifacts! Archaeologists confirm that these objects are consistent with those created by the Hopewell Culture. The artifacts are in the collection of the Ohio History Connection in Columbus, Ohio. The Tremper Mound and Enclosure in West Portsmouth is still present in the modern landscape. Tremper Mound is now part of a nature preserve under the stewardship of the Arc of Appalachia , an Ohio archaeological and ecological conservancy. The Arc of Appalachia has plans to open the Tremper Mound Nature Preserve to the public sometime in 2024. The Tremper Mound was excavated in 1915 by the Ohio Archaeological and Historical Society (now known as the Ohio History Connection). The mound is famous for the discovery of around 60 Hopewell Culture effigy pipes carved in the images of local wildlife. The Tremper Mound covered a Hopewell Culture Charnel House which was thought to be the resting place of around 400 individuals, most of whom were cremated. Hundreds of artifacts were discovered in the 1915 excavation, and many were documented with photographs in William C. Mills’ 1916 book, “Certain Mounds and Village Sites in Ohio, Volume 2: Part 3, Exploration of the Tremper Mound.” These artifacts are now in the collection of the Ohio History Connection. The Scioto County Infirmary Mound still exists in West Portsmouth. The mound is owned and cared for by Scioto County and the Scioto County Commissioners. The site was slotted for development in the 1980s, and the Commissioners allowed a salvage excavation because the site was known to have archaeological significance. This excavation was led by Martha Potter Otto, Director of the Ohio Historical Society (now the Ohio History Connection), and spearheaded by David Kuhn, Esquire, and Jonathan E. “JEB” Bowen, Professional Archaeologist. The excavation uncovered hundreds of artifacts thought to range from the Archaic Period through the Late Prehistoric Period (~AD 1,000-1,500). Reports of this salvage excavation may be found in the “Ohio Archaeologist” journal. During this excavation, it was discovered that the Scioto County Infirmary site is actually a prehistoric mound. This finding led to the preservation of the mound as it stands intact today. The Scioto County Infirmary Mound is open to the public by appointment. It may be viewed from Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park, which is open to the public. There are additional intact Portsmouth Earthworks sites located on private property in Kentucky. These locations are closed to the public. The Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center houses a collection of over 10,000 prehistoric Native American artifacts, many discovered in and around the Portsmouth Earthworks. This collection is displayed in the museum’s “Art of The Ancients” permanent exhibition. For more information about the Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center or to schedule a free guided tour, please visit www.somacc.com or call the museum at 740-354-5629. The Raven Rock Overlook is a prominent destination for hikers in West Portsmouth showcasing a vista of over 10 miles up and down the Ohio River. The overlook was utilized by prehistoric people, as evident from the Raven Rock Stone Cairn , an earth and rock mound which used to set at the top of the ridge just to the north of the lookout. Hopewell Culture artifacts are reported to have been found beneath the Raven Rock Stone Cairn. A cache of Leaf-Shaped Adena Culture Blades (~800 BC) were recovered from the cairn. These colorful flint knives or spear points are now part of the Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center’s “Art of The Ancients” exhibition. The Raven Rock Overlook is open to the public by permit. The location is part of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Raven Rock State Nature Preserve. The overlook may be accessed by a hiking trail rated moderate, as it climbs from an elevation of around 500 feet at the base to over 1,000 feet at the peak. A Free Permit for The Raven Rock Hiking Trail may be obtained from the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves through the following website: https://ohiodnr.gov/buy-and-apply/special-use-permits/nature-preserve-access A Same-Day Permit for hiking to the Raven Rock Overlook may be obtained from the Shawnee State Park Office , located at 4404 State Route 125 in West Portsmouth. The Park Office may be found at the base of the hill leading the Shawnee State Park Lodge and Conference Center. A Same-day permit for hiking to the Raven Rock Overlook may also be obtained from the Shawnee State Park Ohio River Campground and Marina Office , located at 11152 U.S. Highway 52 in Stout. Andrew Feight, Ph.D., Professor of History and Director of The Center of Public History at Shawnee State University has created a tour of the Portsmouth Earthworks sites remaining in Ohio. This tour is hosted on the Scioto Historical website and smartphone app: sciotohistorical.org The Scioto Historical virtual or driving Portsmouth Earthworks Complex Tour may be accessed at the following link: sciotohistorical.org/tours/show/22 As part of the Scioto Historical Portsmouth Earthworks Complex Tour, a virtual rendering of the Portsmouth Earthworks as they are thought to have existed around 2,000 years ago was commissioned. Herb Roe, a visual artist and graduate of Portsmouth High School, created the virtual images of the Portsmouth Earthworks based on historic documentation and professional input The scope of the Portsmouth Earthworks is so large that it is best witnessed from the air. Herb Roe’s Virtual Flyover of the Portsmouth Earthworks Complex may be viewed on the Scioto Historical app and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcZrGnCRKB8 Evidence from Scioto County attests to the monumental and sophisticated prehistoric civilizations that once thrived in the region. Scioto County remains a land of abundance, attracting modern day visitors and residents for many of the same reasons prehistoric people chose to make this place their home.