Museum of the Grand Prairie · Urbana, IL
This hands-on program will guide campers through creating a variety of their own artifacts using materials and techniques known from early peoples of Illinois. Over four weeks, campers will use scientific methods to learn about local natural resources and how they were used to make everyday items such as tools, ceramics, and inks. Week 1: Recording History Campers will learn about different methods of sharing historical information both by early Native American people and European Settlers. Using natural resources to create various inks and paints, campers will learn how each is processed and used. Week 2: Tool Making Campers will learn about different local materials used to make a wide variety of everyday tools. Resourcefulness and inventiveness of early people will be highlighted as campers learn to create and problem-solve using materials found around them. Week 3: Ceramics Campers will learn about the different styles and materials found in ancient Illinois history as well as contemporary Native artists. Throughout the day, campers will have the chance to create their own ceramic vessels. Week 4: All Together Campers will put what they’ve learned together through a final set of activities demonstrating the many forms of evidence which tell us about our region’s history.
