Explorer's Leather Pouch

Sunday, July 28, 1805. ...The greater part of the men, having yesterday put their deer skins in water, were this day engaged in dressing them for the purpose of making clothing...making them into moccasins and leggings.
Coues Edition of the Journals of Lewis and Clark

Lewis and Clark and the mountain men who followed them developed close relationships with the Native tribes of the regions they traveled through. They adopted the customs and practices of the Indians, making use of their apparel and equipment. A trapper or explorer would carry a leather pouch, holding food such as berries and jerky, pipes, extra moccasins, sewing kit, bullets and powder and hunting equipment. Under the instruction of artist Ellen Miffitt, students will make their own, decorated, faux leather pouch featuring the image of the Lewis & Clark Peace and Friendship Medallion.
More Information

From Lewis & Clark to Medicine Creek:
The Encounter of Two Worlds

This slide-illustrated class will help students understand the importance of the encounter between the Native tribes of the northwest and the Lewis and Clark expedition. The men of the exploring party found the region controlled by Native Americans, who were closely attuned to the natural environment. In a real sense, Lewis and Clark were guests of the Indians, dependent upon them for supplies and information.

Expert regional historian Drew Crooks will explain how the meeting of two worlds changed forever the lives of real people from different cultural backgrounds. Students will learn that decisions in the nineteenth century had consequences that continue to the present day.
More Information

Voyage of Discovery Class

Inspired by the journals of the Lewis & Clark expedition, this class will teach easy steps in the basic techniques of orienteering with a compass, in small groups, to special observations points around the museum property.

Each student will produce a journal containing a map, written observations of the local flora and fauna and botanical drawings. Student groups will start their exploration with special expedition gear and clues, to lead them on their voyage of discovery.
More Information

Legends of the Long House

Master Basket Weaver Harvest Moon presents a selection of classes and weaving lessons at the museum including Legends of the Long House, Mother Earth Games & Legends, and Basketweaving Past & Future. Using natural materials, students will weave and learn about the history of Northwest Native American basketweaving and the rituals of gathering materials.

Learn about the connection between the natural world and games that hold a special relationship to the social and spiritual life of the tribe. The classes are interwoven with humor, legends, songs and special hands-on artifacts. Cattail figure making is recommend for grades through 3, mat weaving and simple baskets for grades 4 and above.
More Information