Ohio Buckeye Gold Prospectors to Host 30th Annual Celebration and Public Dig in Bellville
Published: Aug 30, 2026 - 1:09 p.m.
BELLVILLE, OHIO — The banks of the Clear Fork River in Richland County will soon be crowded with people hoping to find a bit of glacial gold during a milestone community event. The Ohio Buckeye Chapter of the Gold Prospectors Association of America is preparing for its 30th annual celebration over Labor Day weekend, bringing a mix of history and hobbyism to the local area. Starting at 10 a.m. Sept. 5 and 6, the group will open its private claim at 1099 Cutnaw Road to the public for two days of hands-on prospecting. While many people associate gold rushes with the mid-19th century American West, there is a documented history of mining in Ohio. According to Ohio Department of Natural Resources Geofacts No. 9, prospectors returning from the 1848 California gold strike began checking local creeks and found enough to spark a local interest that persists today. Most of the gold found in the state was carried south from Canada by ice sheets during the last glacial period, meaning it is often found in the gravel of riverbeds like the Clear Fork. The event is designed to be accessible for families, offering free admission and free parking. It is not just about the mining: Attendees can expect food trucks, vendors and various demonstrations of traditional prospecting techniques. There are also duck races and activities planned for children to ensure the next generation of treasure hunters gets a chance to participate. According to the Ohio Buckeye Chapter, proceeds from various activities during the weekend benefit local organizations, including the Bellville Neighborhood Outreach Center and the Scouts of America. Participants in the common digs are allowed to keep any Ohio gold they happen to find in their pans. The site is located just south of the village of Bellville, a community that has become a hub for those interested in the natural history of the Mohican River watershed. More information on the weekend schedule can be found at buckeyegold.com. -------------------- At Cleveland 13 News, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable reporting. If you spot an error, omission, or have information that may need updating, please email us at tips@cleveland13news.com. As a community-driven news network, we appreciate the help of our readers in ensuring the integrity of our reporting.
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