STATEHOUSE NEWS

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The Ohio Statehouse is proud to host the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Geological Survey for Statehouse Fossil Fest on Thursday, June 25 with a day of fun dedicated to fossils! The program is free and open to all ages.

Statehouse Fossil Fest will feature hands-on activities in the Statehouse Atrium from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by a guided fossil tour of the Statehouse and grounds from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The event is presented in cooperation with the Orton Geological Museum, the Karl E. Limper Geological Museum, the Cincinnati Museum Center, and the State Library of Ohio.

The Ohio Statehouse provides a unique setting for fossil exploration. Much of the building is constructed from Columbus Limestone that has preserved a variety of marine fossils, including corals, sponges, shells, and trilobites.

This free, public event is part of ODNR’s Earth Science Summer event series, created to engage residents in the state’s geologic heritage. Statehouse Fossil Fest is also a way to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and the Collaborative Summer Library Program’s 2026 theme, “Unearth a Story.”

Members of the public can find full event details for Statehouse Fossil Fest and other Earth Science Summer events at ohiodnr.gov/earthsciencesummer.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.

The mission of the Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board is to facilitate the operation of state government, preserve the historical integrity of the Capitol Square Complex and educate visitors about the history of Ohio and civics. For more information, visit OhioStatehouse.org.

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For more information, contact:
Karina Cheung, Capitol Square Review & Advisory Board
E-mail: Karina.Cheung@Ohiostatehouse.org
Phone: 614-728-2130
or
Molly E. Hunt, ODNR Division of Geological Survey
E-Mail: Molly.Hunt@dnr.ohio.gov
Direct Line: 614-265-6595