***We have cancelled this event due to weather conditions. Please check out our website to sign up for future History Explorers events, running through mid-October: https://www.history.swannanoavalleymuseum.org/events/
Children’s programming is also available by appointment.***

Starting in August and running through the fall, the museum will be hosting hour-long activities every other Saturday morning, aimed at children from kindergarten through 4th grade. The History’s Mysteries outdoor series will encourage children to be “history detectives” as they use their observation skills to infer the uses of artifacts from various cultures and eras that make up the legacy of the Swannanoa Valley and the Appalachian mountain region.

On Saturday, August 22nd, the museum will host its History’s Mysteries activity on the theme of Ancient American Indian artifacts and historic Cherokee objects. Staff will speak about American Indian history in the Swannanoa Valley and help attendees to define key terms. Then, children and their guardians will rotate around outdoor stations, guessing the uses of displayed artifacts and objects, then come back together for staff to reveal the uses of the objects. Time allowing, children will also learn how to play the butterbean game, a counting game historically enjoyed by the Cherokee.

LOCATION

Shaded lot behind the Black Mountain United Methodist Church (101 Church Street, Black Mountain, NC 28711), next to the ca1938 “Church House.” Public parking is available behind the church. The church faces West State Street in downtown Black Mountain, and public parking/event location can be accessed by turning on to Church Street from West State Street, then turning left into the parking lot.

COST

$5 per person (adults and children). Taxes and fees apply. Event is free for museum members. Please email svmvolunteer@gmail.com for promo code.

COVID & ATTENDANCE POLICIES

• This event is held out of doors, with a limit on attendance to allow for social distancing. The activity takes place in full shade and water will be available.
• All children or groups of children must be accompanied by an adult guardian.
• All museum staff will wear masks and all attendees are required to wear masks except for children under 11.
•  Staff will inform attendees of a cancellation by 5pm the day before the program. Registrants can transfer their payments to another upcoming children’s program or receive refunds.