The Falls of the Ohio River: America's First Fossil Bed

Abstract

The Falls of the Ohio is a world-renowned geoheritage site of palaeontological and geological importance that also played key roles in the cultural and historical development of America. Studied by geologists for over two centuries, over 600 species of fossils are known from the site, hundreds which were first described here. Beyond geology, the Falls of the Ohio can also be considered the origin and ending of the Lewis and Clark expedition, as well as an important location for naturalists and educators. A treasure of natural and human history and a National Natural Landmark, this spectacular 220-acre expanse of fossiliferous bedrock is worthy of ongoing study and protection.