Arkansas Archeological Survey and ASU Museum to Host Archeology Day
JONESBORO – How do archeologists make conclusions based on what is found in the dirt? What processes do they use to reconstruct the past when the archeological record is incomplete? Also, what is that oddly shaped stone that your dog dug up?
For answers to these and other questions, the Arkansas State University Museum invites everyone to the Museum for Archeology Day, Saturday, March 15, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon.
At 10 a.m., participants may listen to excerpts from the book, “Motel of Mysteries,” a fictional spoof drawing hilarious conclusions from modern “archeological finds.“ Afterwards, one may play Pro vs. Amateur to see how one’s imagination can conjure up fanciful conclusions about everyday objects.
At 11 a.m., visitors will discover the secrets left behind by a fictional society as they “dig” for “artifacts” and interpret their meaning.
“On a small scale, you will uncover stratified layers, record your findings, and answer questions based on your observations,” according to Jill Kary, curator of education at the Museum. “During this exciting activity, you will learn that our knowledge of the past is incomplete. Informational gaps do exist.”
Also at 11:00 am, in the Native American Gallery, younger visitors will dig for and collect pottery shards to fit together much like puzzle pieces.
Throughout the event, visitors may bring Native American or other artifacts for identification (not appraisal) by professional archeologists. The purpose of the identification is to learn more about the age, function, and cultural meaning of objects that have been found throughout our region.
Arkansas State University Museum is located at 320 University Loop. This is a free, family event with something of interest for most age levels. ASU Museum supports lifelong learning and encourages families to play and learn together. For birthday party information, visit http://museum.astate.edu.
Regular hours are Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. Admission is free although donations are gratefully accepted.
For further information, contact Kary, jkary@astate.edu, at 870-972-2074, or like the Museum at http://facebook.com/ASUMuseum.
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