Archaeology, music mark Walker Tavern 50th anniversary July 23

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 16, 2015

Contact: Laurie Perkins, 517-241-0731


Walker Tavern Historic Site celebrates 50th anniversary July 23 with
archaeology and music

Walker Tavern Historic Site near Brooklyn, Michigan, was purchased by the state in 1965. On Thursday, July 23, an interpretive program and concert will celebrate those early beginnings. From 1 to 3 p.m., staff members from the Office of the State Archaeologist of Michigan and Wayne State University students will present a program on the earliest archaeology at the site.

Activities and artifacts recovered from basements and crawl spaces will help visitors learn about daily life at the site more than 175 years ago. Young visitors can make their own historical toys and take home archaeology activity books.

That same evening, from 6 to 8 p.m., the site will host its second Picnic on the Lawn Concert, featuring Sarah Bernstein and Luke Lenhart. “This duo, known locally and statewide, brings a twist of Americana to their bluegrass style of music,” said Walker Tavern site historian Laurie Perkins. “We encourage our visitors to bring lawn chairs and picnics so they can enjoy the outdoor music as the summer sun begins to set.”

The final concert in the series will feature the Old Tyme Millers String Band Thursday, Aug. 20.

Sponsored by the Friends of Walker Tavern, all concerts are weather permitting; canceled events will be rescheduled based on performers' availability.

Both programs are free to all ages, but a Recreation Passport is required for park entry.

Walker Tavern is one of 11 nationally accredited museums administered by the Michigan Historical Center. It is located at the junction of U.S. 12 and M-50, southeast of Jackson. For more information, call 517-467-4401 or visit www.michigan.gov/walkertavern.

The Michigan Historical Center is part of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Its museum and archival programs help people discover, enjoy and find inspiration in their heritage. It includes the Michigan Historical Museum, 10 regional museums, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Underwater Preserve and the Archives of Michigan. Learn more at www.michigan.gov/michiganhistory. 

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.