Photo provided Located in Ohio’s Appalachian Plateau, Raven Rocks is known for its sandstone cliffs, ravines, rock overhangs and a secluded waterfall. Early pioneers referred to the area as the First Ravine of the Raven Rocks, a name tied to its prominent ledges and distinctive geological formations.

BARNESVILLE — The Belmont County Historical Society will sponsor a field trip to Raven Rocks on Tuesday, July 9, offering participants a guided exploration of one of southern Belmont County’s most notable natural and historical areas.

Participants will meet at the Belmont County Victorian Mansion Museum at 10 a.m. before carpooling to the site.

Located in Ohio’s Appalachian Plateau, Raven Rocks is known for its sandstone cliffs, ravines, rock overhangs and a secluded waterfall. Early pioneers referred to the area as the First Ravine of the Raven Rocks, a name tied to its prominent ledges and distinctive geological formations.

The site also carries archaeological significance, with evidence indicating repeated use by Indigenous peoples of the Ohio and Captina Creek valleys over a period of more than 200 years.

The field trip will be led by John Boilegh, an archaeologist and public speaker with experience in cultural resource management, archaeological surveys and preservation work. Boilegh studied anthropology at Franciscan University of Steubenville with an emphasis in archaeology.

He currently works with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, where he helps ensure that mining operations comply with state requirements for the protection of cultural and archaeological sites.

Participants are advised to dress for outdoor conditions and a short hike. Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing and water are recommended.

The event is free to attend, but donations will be accepted. No registration is required.

More information is available at belmontcountymuseum.com or on the museum’s Facebook page at facebook.com/BelmontCountyVictorianMansion and Instagram at instagram.com/belmontcountymuseum.

The Belmont County Victorian Mansion Museum, located on state Route 800 in Barnesville, is a 26-room Romanesque Revival mansion completed in 1893. It is owned and operated by the Belmont County Historical Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.