Aldridge Gardens presents a Native American experience
On Sunday, Oct. 7, Aldridge Gardens will host its third annual Whispers from the Past event.
“‘Whispers from the Past: a Native American Festival’ came about after having a discussion with Moundville Archaeological Park about the lack of awareness in Jefferson County of the area’s rich Native American history,” said Rip Weaver, executive director of Aldridge Gardens. “Based on that conversation, we decided to do an authentic, honest festival, celebrating the everyday life and events of those who lived in this area. No plastic tomahawks here!”
The event, which runs from noon-7:30 p.m., features something for everyone, including.
• The Sylestine Legacy: See authentic pow wow dancing at 3 p.m. A second “black light” performance will be held at 6:30 p.m.
• Flintknapping: Watch experts form arrowheads using primitive tools.
• Cooking like the Indians: Hosted by independent scholar Chip Wente.
• Josselyn Archaeological Collection from UAB: Hosted by Sharyn Jones, Ph.D., scholar led tours. See stone tools, pottery, ornaments and arrowheads excavated from 100 sites from across all Alabama counties.
• Three Sisters Garden: Learn how Native Americans planted and cultivated their food.
• Hands-on activities: Native American tattoos; grinding corn; loom beading; medicinal plant study; and scavenger hunt and throwing with an atlatl – an ancient weapon that is essentially a stick with a handle on one end and a hook or socket that engages a light spear or “dart” on the other.
Also at the event, food vendors will serve roasted corn, fry bread and Indian tacos. A $3 activity card will grant children access to leaf pounding, clay coil pots and gourd crafts.
Offsite parking and continuous shuttle service will be available.
“Judging from the crowds we have had the last two years, there are many, many people that are interested in the Indian history of this area,” Weaver said.
“Whispers has something for all ages — it is not just an event for kids!”
Aldridge Gardens is located at 3530 Lorna Road and can be reached at 682-8019.