Licking County Archaeology and Landmarks Society
The Licking County Archaeology and Landmarks Society was formed after the founder, Paul Hooge, learned about a piece of land west of Newark. The property belonged to Herb and George Murphy, and they had planned on using it for a development. After meeting with the Murphys, Paul Hooge gained permission to start a dig. Shortly after his first dig, Hooge formed the Licking County Archaeology and Landmarks Society. The goal of the organization is to study and preserve the area's archaeological sites.[1]
Hooge became interested in archaeology following a course in antique furniture. Hooge worked with the Licking County Historical Society, where he learned more about archaeology. After that point, he was obsessed and threw himself into the work.[2]
Paul Hooge was known for his "loud-mouthed bad boy" reputation, when he challenged Everett Reese, a businessman/philanthropist, in the demolition of a house dating from 1810, which was owned by Reese. This public spectacle resulted in Hooge losing his good standing with the Licking County Historical Society.[3]
M.J.
