Historians hoping to preserve the ancient Octagon Earthworks in Newark, Ohio, as a UNESCO World Heritage site faces a problem: the golf club that leases the property.

The New York Times’ Sarah Bahr explains how historians are looking to preserve the Ancient Octagon Earthworks in Newark, Ohio and earn them an UNESCO World Heritage designation.

The problem? These earthworks have been part of Moundbuilders Country Club more more than 100 years but have not become an issue:

But now the club, which has leased the land for more than a century, is being asked to relocate so that the mounds can be properly embraced as an archaeological treasure, a move club members understand — they have preserved the mounds for generations — but one that they say will be difficult for them to undertake unless representatives of the state kick up the ante for the cost of creating a new golf venue.

The $1.7 million amount the state’s representatives have proposed under eminent domain is up from an initial offer of $800,000. But the club wants $12 million. The dispute heads to the Ohio Supreme Court on Tuesday.

It’s a terrific and balanced read, so as always I urge you to hit the link.

Also, here is 1930 Golf Illustrated story on Moundbuilders.