Archeologist, anthropolgist to attend Iola event
The Iola Historical Society will hold Native American Heritage Day on Saturday, Aug. 10.
The event will feature a presentation by Dr. Ray Reser, former University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point archaeologist, telling visitors about the culture and history of the Native Americans who lived in Central Wisconsin.
The Towne Family Artifact dedication will follow Reser’s program.
Numerous Native American artifacts donated by the Towne family are displayed in eight cases.
Robert Ahlrich, an anthropologist at UW-Milwaukee, will demonstrate knapping.
Knapping is how Native American craftsmen created projectile points from flint and other raw materials.
Local artisan Barb Johnson will give a basket weaving demonstration.
She has woven a rice-gathering basket patterned in Native American style.
Children may play Native American games and be archaeologists when they “excavate” a dig in search of arrowheads.
They may win prizes with their finds.
Event times
• Noon to 3 p.m. – Vintage buildings and museums open for viewing.
• 1:30 p.m. – Native Ameican history presentation. Native American Artifact Display dedication will take place following the presentation.
• 1-3 p.m. – Knapping demonstration.
Admission to the event is free, although donations are always accepted.
The Iola Historical Society is open from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturdays, June through August.
People may visit www.iolahistoricalsociety.org for more information.