Hands On History at Wickliffe Mounds State Historic Site

WICKLIFFE, Ky – (June 2, 2018)  -- Family-friendly activities related to archaeology, Mississippian Native American culture and the natural environment will be offered on Saturdays through the summer at Wickliffe Mounds State Historic Site.

Each “Hands On History Saturday” activity will be demonstrated by park staff for visitors of all ages and will include games, pottery, baskets, bow and arrows, gourds and more. Each session will be from 10 a.m. to noon.

The June 2 program will be a trail walk and talk and on June 9, the topic will be the “River Through Time,” a session about the role of the Mississippi River played in the lives of the Native Americans.

To find out more, call the park or visit the website to find out what activity will occur along with details.  The programs, which run through Labor Day weekend, are included with paid museum admission of $5 adults, $4 kids & seniors, and are subject to change based on weather. Some programs may have a materials fee.

For more information, call the park office at 270-335-3681 or email carla.hildebrand@ky.gov , visit our website at www.parks.ky.gov.  Wickliffe Mounds State Historic Site is located at 94 Green Street, Wickliffe, KY 42087.

Hands on History Schedule of Events

Saturday June 2 - Trail Walk and Talk

Guided leisurely walk on the Woods Walk Trail and talk with park staff about the natural environment while clearing the trail of sticks, litter, and vines.  Then learn about animal tracks with an interactive activity for kids.  Leave No Trace ethics will be presented. 

Saturday June 9–River Through Time

The Mississippi River is a very important natural resource for residents of this area, past and present. Learn about the geology and ecosystem of the river, it’s importance to Mississippian Native American culture and how it has changed through time with a hands-on demonstration of a river stream table. 

Saturday June 16–Dig It! Archaeology For Kids

Mock excavation and artifact identification activity for children ages 5 to 12.  Limit 10 children per excavation so there will be 2 sessions of this program:  10:00-10:45 and 11:00-11:45.

Saturday June 23–Native American Storytelling

Native American stories will be brought to life with this fun program featuring children’s     author, Geraldine Marshall.  Program is inside Welcome Center.   

Saturday June 30 - Primitive Technology

Try your skills with primitive technology, geared for youths, but available for all ages. 

Saturday July 7- Gorget Necklaces  ($1 materials fee)

Gorgets are a Native American pendant worn around the neck, decorated with symbols and beads. Learn about the different symbols made by Native People of the Mississippian culture and make your own gorget necklace to take home.  Great program for kids ages 4 and up.

Saturday July 14–Basket Weaving Workshop—($15 workshop fee)

Skilled basket weaver, Mary Greer, will be teaching basket weaving for beginners in the    Welcome Center, 10:00 to 3:00 pm.  Registration required.  All materials provided. For ages 15 and above. 

Saturday July 21–Birds of Wickliffe Mounds ($3 materials fee)

Learn about the birds of Wickliffe Mounds, in nature and images, and paint your own bird house to take home. Program is suitable for ages 8 and up.

Saturday July 28–Bundle Bags  ($2 materials fee)

Visitors ages 8 and up will make a Native American bundle bag to take home. Ages 8 and up.

Saturday August 4–Natural Tie Dye ($2 materials fee)

Find out about natural dyes from plants and create a tie dyed bandana of your own. Great for the whole family to do together!

Saturday August 11 – Pottery ($1 materials fee)

Discover how Native Americans of the Mississippian culture made pottery.  Make and take home a pinch pot.   Program for ages 5 and up.                              

Saturday August 18–Corn Shuck Dolls and Action Figures ($1 materials fee)

Native Americans and early pioneers made toys from corn shucks (husks). Make and take your own corn shuck doll.  Not into dolls? That’s ok! Make your own action figure—Corn Man or Corn Woman! Recommended ages 5 and above.

Saturday August 25–Gourd Art  ($3 materials fee)

Program discusses the importance of gourds to Native American Mississippian culture and beautiful gourd art that be created from them. Make and take your own gourd bowl with paint and natural materials.  For ages 12 to adult.

Saturday September 1–Hunting

Topic is Native American hunting with a demonstration of spears, atlatls and blow guns.  Learn how they were made and used, and try them out for yourself.   

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