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Parkin Park to host primitive pottery workshop

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Parkin Park to host primitive pottery workshop

Sign up now for Saturday, Oct. 15 event

Parkin Archeological State Park American Indian pottery is often perceived as art.

While these artifacts are indeed beautiful, much of the pottery archeologists find had important functions in ancient life such as cooking, eating, and storage. Prehistoric people had to work hard to get their pottery – digging the clay from the riverbanks, preparing it by removing any stones, sticks, roots, and shell, and getting it to the right consistency.

Then there was the issue of talent; American Indians learned from a young age how to make pottery and it was a life skill that was as important as hunting and farming. Creating a vessel and having it survive a firing was quite an accomplishment!

If you want to feel the thrill of going through these steps, come to Parkin Archeological State Park on Saturday, Oct. 15, from 1 to 4 p.m., and learn about primitive pottery techniques and try out the methods for yourself with local clay!

Replicate an ancient vessel that we have on display in our museum or create a new shape from your own imagination. Vessels will be fired in an open fire pit at a later date (Nov. 19 weather permitting) and they will be ready for you to take home after that.

There is a $15 fee for materials. Reservations are required and space is limited. Please call Park Interpreter Mel at 870-7552500 or email mel.harvey@ arkansas.gov to reserve your spot!

From Melissa Harvey

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