Rare Mammoth Tooth found on the grounds of The Inn

From gorgeous views and serene walking trails, to unique art and upscale dining, we pride ourselves on all there is to discover at our picturesque resort. Recently, however, a different kind of discovery was made on the property – one that revealed a link to ancient history. We’re thrilled to be the site of a unique and special find that proves there could be some hidden treasures among the rolling hills of Ohio’s Amish Country still waiting to be uncovered.

One Saturday this past July, Innkeeper Jason’s family took advantage of bright summer weather and gathered on the grounds of The Inn for a family reunion. Surrounded by scenic nature, it was a perfect day for mingling and laughing with loved ones. They had no idea the special day would become even more memorable than anticipated.

As part of the festivities, the family congregated at the bridge over Honey Run Creek for pictures. As Jackson Hepner, 12, wandered along the water’s edge during a break in the photo session, he spotted something intriguing. Just along the water’s edge was a strange-looking solid object covered in ridges. He pulled the item from the mud knowing he’d discovered something remarkable – some sort of tooth.

Jackson writes in an account of the discovery, “I found the mammoth tooth about ten yards upstream from the bridge we had our family pictures on. It was partially buried on the left side of the creek. It was completely out of the water on the creek bed.”

Within a few days, the item was indeed identified by numerous scholars and professors including Dale Gnidovec of The Ohio State University’s Orton Geological Museum, Nigel Brush of Ashland University’s Geology Department, and P. Nick Kardulias College of Wooster’ Program of Archeology.

Each identified the finding as the tooth of a Woolly Mammoth, specifically an upper 3rd molar.

Teeth of Woolly Mammoths are distinguished by parallel ridges, which the animals used to grind grass and seeds.

We couldn’t be prouder to be the site of such an extraordinary find and unforgettable experience!

Now, Jackson awaits the safe return of his tooth, also writing, “I would like to have my tooth back in my hands as soon as possible. I want to show my friends.”

We don’t blame him!

Ohio holds ample evidence of the Ice Age and its glacial impact. The rich soil, notable bodies of water, and varying topography benefit us every day. That’s not all the Ice Age left behind, though – we also have evidence of now-extinct creatures, such as the Woolly Mammoth. These herbivores, known for their long, curved tusks and thick fur, were comparable in size to modern African Elephants; They stood about three meters tall and weighed up to 6 tons. The last known group of mammoths went extinct just 4,000 years ago.

Imagine a creature like that roaming Ohio today!

The landscape and wildlife that visitors at the Inn experience now is definitely changed from the time of the great Ice Age. What is now lush greenery, flowing waters, and hundreds of beautiful species was once an enormous glacial sheet that would slowly (and literally) shape Ohio’s future.

The unearthing of the Mammoth tooth shows that there are definite pieces of ancient history hidden around us, connecting us to an interesting past.

We just have to be in the right place at the right time to find them, like Jackson.

The Honey Run team can’t wait to see what cool item turns up on our grounds next!