A preserve with local stewardship
The Leo Petroglyphs & Nature Preserve is at 400 Park Road in Ray, Ohio. The Cincinnati Enquirer, in Alex Perry’s report published through the USA Today Network, reports that admission is free and the site is open during daylight hours. The Ohio History Connection names Friends of Buckeye Furnace, in the care of the Jackson Historical Society, as the preserve’s local managers.
Ohio’s archaeological records and rules
The Ohio History Connection says the Ohio Archaeological Inventory is the state’s official record of known prehistoric and historic archaeological sites. For archaeological investigations on public land, preserves and sites listed in the state registry of archaeological landmarks, Ohio Administrative Code Rule 149-1-02 sets guidelines.
The carved panel
A shelter house covers the sandstone slab. The Ohio History Connection says the panel contains 37 figures, among them people, birds, human and animal footprints, a fish and a snake.
What the evidence can—and cannot—establish
The carvings’ exact age and meaning remain uncertain. Using the sandstone’s weathering as a guide, the Ohio History Connection estimates they are no more than about 1,000 years old and considers the Fort Ancient culture their likely makers. The organization says the figures’ meanings have not been determined. Its visitor information says the site is not handicapped accessible and stairs surround the shelter.
