224 GEOLOGY OF OHIO. 



on the level surface of the height. The plateau was evidently inhabited 

 for many years, perhaps centuries, as the soil which covers it is a "made 

 soil," abounding in bones of animals, stone implements, and arrow-heads. 

 Probably the efficiency of the trenches was increased by palisades or some 

 other defense of wood, all trace of which has disappeared by decay. 



An ancient fortification erected by the Mound Builders is discernible 

 on land owned by Mr. Jacob Delker, on a bench of the west bluff of the 

 Vermilion River, where it makes a bend after entering the township 

 from Henrietta, not far below the bridge. The descent upon this projec- 

 tion of land is quite rapid. About midway of the descent a trench was 

 dug, and breastworks were thrown up. They now stand out distinctly, 

 but have been cut through in the middle to permit the passage of wagons. 

 The trench has been mostly filled in by the washing down of the gravelly 

 bluff above. A young peach orchard is on this old fortification. 



About seven acres are included in a large fort on Mr. Jacob Ennis's 

 land, on the east bank of the Vermilion River, three miles above its 

 mouth. The Mound Builders must have considered this an important 

 station, as shown by these extensive intrenchments, now somewhat ob- 

 scured in outline on one side by reason of many years' plowing. The 

 soil of this fort contains quantities of fragments of bone and pottery 

 and chippings of flint. 



