Transcription contributed by Martie Callihan 14 April 2005

The History of Warren County Ohio
Part IV Township Histories
Harlan Township by J. A. Runyan
(Chicago, IL: W. H. Beers Co, 1882; reprint, Mt. Vernon, IN: Windmill Publications, 1992)

Page
672

Ancient remains or fortifications are found in the central portion of the township. About two miles northeast of Butlerville, on the lands of Jackson Clinton and Peter S. Templin, are found the remains of two earthen mounds, one on the south and one on the north side of Second Creek. They are situated in the highest points in the vicinity, and have a commanding view of the surrounding country; and from their peculiar location and construction, it would appear that they had been lookouts, or sentinel posts.

A few years ago the writer assisted in exploring one of these mounds, and at a depth about level with the earth surrounding the mound, a broken flint arrowhead and quantities of charcoal were discovered. No other remains were found.

On the farm of William Reed, Esq., a short distance east of these mounds, and on the bank of the same stream, is found what is, or was, supposed to be an ancient burying ground. Nothing remains which would now indicate that the field had ever been used as a burial place, as the land has been cultivated for many

The writer is not aware that any effort has ever been made to determine the accuracy of the tradition connected with this supposed cemetery. Such a thing would not be attended with great difficulty, and possibly might lead to valuable discoveries. As it is, the above is given as narrated to the writer by individuals residing in the vicinity

Generally throughout the township, flint arrow-heads, stone axes and other implements and relics of stone are found in considerable numbers.