Archaeology Month at Poverty Point World Heritage Site
As part of the programs planned for Archaeology Month, visitors to Poverty Point World Heritage Site are invited to take part in ranger-led demonstrations that depicts the lives of the Native American people who inhabited the area and created the earthworks that are still visible today.
On Saturday, Oct. 8, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., learn the art of crafting prehistoric-styled pottery, similar to the pieces which the Native Americans fashioned more than 3,500 years ago. Attendees can try their hand at creating items such as figurines, decorated artistic objects, coiled clay pots, and clay pipes, such as those that have been excavated from the Poverty Point site. All of the clay and other materials needed for making this primitive pottery will be provided, so no special equipment is required except your hands and creativity. It is recommended to wear or bring appropriate clothes for working with potentially messy clay.
On Saturday Oct. 15, from 10 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., spend International Archaeology day learning about archaeology, take a guided tram tour of the 3, monumental earthworks with the Station Archaeologist, and try your hand at using the same types of tools used 3,500 years ago.
10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Prehistoric tool demonstration and PPO making
1 p.m. – 2p.m. Special guided tram tour by Station Archaeologist
2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Flint knapping and atlatl demonstration
On Saturday, Oct. 22, at 11 a.m., get a look at the unique art of prehistoric cooking with an earth oven. Visitors will have a chance to observe how the Poverty Point people used clay cooking balls, or Poverty Point Objects, to cook their food. Visitors will even be able to participate in the demonstration by sampling the food prepared in this ancient way.
On Saturday Oct. 29, at 11 a.m. participate in a ranger-guided hike around the 402-acre prehistoric site. The 2.6 mile hike will include all of the prehistoric mounds and ridges located on the site as well as the plaza. So, bring the entire family out and enjoy the morning hike. Please wear weather appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes.