Contributions of Frederic Ward Putnam to Ohio Archaeology

Abstract

Frederick Ward Putnam (1839-1915) carried out and directed archaeological research in Ohio primarily between 1880-1895 as part of the program of the Peabody Museum of American Archaeology and Ethnology at Harvard University. He was especially concerned with the mounds of Little Miami Valley, Scioto Valley, Fort Ancient, Fort Hill, and the Great Serpent Mound. He developed the standard methods of mound exploration, and took steps to preserve archaeological sites. He published many reports, and gave frequent lectures on his studies in Ohio. He concluded the mound builders originated in Mexico.