The Bureau of Land Management, Forest Service and Susanville Indian Rancheria will offer a hands-on look into the lives of northeast California’s early inhabitants during Archaeology Day, a free, family friendly event, from 10:00a.m. to 2:00p.m., Saturday, October 5th, at the Hobo Camp Day Use Area along the Susan River just west of Susanville.
Participants can try using an atlatl to throw a spear, learn how to use a compass, learn about petroglyphs and create their own rock art.
A hands-on exhibit will allow participants to simulate an archaeological study, and a biologist will share information about native plants and animals.
Gold Rush-era games and tule mat weaving round out the glimpse into the history and pre-history of the northeast California region.
“This is a great event to connect children to their public lands and our natural and cultural heritage,” said Sara Acridge, acting manager of the BLM Eagle Lake Field Office, Susanville. “Families will learn about the ties that Native American people have to the lands we all share.”
The event is part of California Archaeology Month, an annual observance of the California Society for Archaeology.
Marilla Martin, an archaeologist with the BLM in Susanville, says the observance calls attention to the study of ancient societies through examination evidence left behind by early people.