Experiential Archaeology

Service Description

Experiential Archaeology is the science of learning about ancient people by walking in their shoes. In this class we will experiment with stone age hunting and tool making by learning various Stone Age skills from fiber processing and rope making to stone tool production. We will begin with a short introduction to the stone age by learning about its most famous celebrity, Otzi. The morning will then be spent learning how ancient people made rope from natural fibers and learning about stone tool production. After our lunch break we will take a closer look at Stone Age hunting tools from spears and atlatls, to building our own deadfall traps. We will wrap up the day by learning about friction fire making and start fires with a bow drill and hand drill. Our goal is for students to leave with greater insight on how ancient man might have lived in North America and learn fundamentals of archaeological inquiry. They might come home with a stone age tool or two as well. All participants are required to have close toed shoes and weather appropriate clothing. Snacks will be provided, but please bring a lunch. Please be sure to wear sunscreen and bring a water bottle. We require one parent chaperone per group of four minors, and parent involvement is encouraged! Location may not have cell service so come prepared to spend a day unplugged!