June 1, 2010

The Frisco Native American Museum & Natural History Center will be offering a number of special programs for children and families this summer.    In addition to the self-guided tours, visitors will also have the opportunity to participate in hands-on workshops that are included in the price of admission.

The programs include:
             
 Explorer's Fossil Pile.  Visitors will be able to enjoy the museum's nature trail and explore the fossil pile located near the maritime forest pavilion.    What looks like a big table filled with sand is actually a treasure-trove from the Aurora Fossil pits.   The sand comes from deep sea dredgings and is filled with sharks teeth, fossilized shells, and other fossils dating back millions of years.  Fun for the entire family.
 
Birding for Kids.  Individuals will have an opportunity to answer a number of questions, such as how birds fly?  What is the smallest bird?  Why do birds sing?  Activities include the museum's bird garden and a chance to see the "biggest bird house" on Hatteras Island.  Participants will join the museum director for a fun-filled experience in an "up close and personal" look at some of the island's local birds.  The session will provide a great introduction to bird watching and possibly start participants on the path to a rich and rewarding life-long hobby.   Sessions will be offered every Friday at the museum from June 18- Aug. 27 at 2 p.m.
 
Beginning Archaeology.  Individuals will have a chance to learn the "how, where, what, and why " of the original inhabitants of Hatteras Island.   A special session provided by museum staff will give participants an opportunity to discover the history of Native Americans using authentic artifacts, many thousands of years old.   Individuals will also take home a piece of history -- a free artifact from the museum.  The program will be offered every Friday at the museum from June 18 – Aug. 27 at 3 p.m.
  
Powwow Time. Visitors will be able to see Native Americans in beautiful regalia, dancing to the beat of native drums, hear Powwow stories, and learn about a Native American celebration through a beautiful video featuring Journey Home, the annual Powwow that takes place at the museum each spring.   The Powwow video will be shown daily in the museum's viewing room.
                
Native Languages. Visitors will have an unusual opportunity to see a video on a language and culture revitalization project for the Oklahoma Miami Tribe.  The session includes interviews with community elders, families, youth, and tribal educators.  The video will be shown daily in the museum’s viewing room.

The museum is open from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, and Monday by appointment only.  Admission is $5 per person, $15 per family, and $3 for seniors.

For more information, contact the museum at 252-995-4440 or visit the website at www.nativeamericanmuseum.org.

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