Did you know that the purple and white beads carved from quahog and whelk shells known as wampum have been used for centuries in Native communities to create social and spiritual bonds? To Native peoples, wampum was never considered money, but it was always valuable. Today, Native artists and culture bearers continue to craft […]
As part of Connecticut Trails Day weekend, Dr Lucianne Lavin, Director of Research and Collections at IAIS, will lead a walk along the museum's trails, ending at our replicated Algonkian village. Get a glimpse into the history and culture of local tribal peoples, learn about their medicinal plants, and hear of their community life and […]
The Institute for American Indian Studies is participating in CT Open House Day! Come to the museum to learn about archaeology, Native cultures past and present, and to get a free tour from one of our docents. Our trained educators are comfortable with visitors of all ages and can modify their tours to fit […]
Join IAIS staff as we take a walk along our museum’s trails and discuss the significance of the summer solstice in various cultures, ending in our replicated Algonkian village Watch the shadows lengthen and listen to the evening sounds as we sit around a fire and enjoy refreshing strawberry treats. Price: Non-members $5; IAIS […]
Traditional Native American clothing varied widely from tribe to tribe, but one nearly universal element was the moccasin. The word moccasin comes from the Algonquian word meaning shoe or footwear. This sturdy slipper-shaped type of shoe was sewn from tanned animal hides. Join Darlene Kascak, Schaghticoke, for a fun and informative workshop making your very […]
For thousands of years, the Native inhabitants of the Eastern Woodlands were able to make dugout canoes using natural materials found in their environment. Travel back in time with IAIS staff at Warren Town Beach on Lake Waramaug. Learn about the traditional techniques required to make a dugout canoe as you dip your paddles into […]
For thousands of years, the Native inhabitants of the Eastern Woodlands were able to make dugout canoes using natural materials found in their environment. Travel back in time with IAIS staff at Warren Town Beach on Lake Waramaug. Learn about the traditional techniques required to make a dugout canoe as you dip your paddles into […]
Corn is an integral part of the annual economic lifecycle of the Native American people. When the first tender ears are ripe for picking it is cause for celebration. Welcome the first corn of the season with exciting activities including drumming, dancing, children’s activities, stories, and more! We are pleased to welcome the Native Nations […]
For thousands of years, the Native inhabitants of the Eastern Woodlands were able to make dugout canoes using natural materials found in their environment. Travel back in time with IAIS staff at Warren Town Beach on Lake Waramaug. Learn about the traditional techniques required to make a dugout canoe as you dip your paddles into […]
Archaeology is the study of the past through the objects people leave behind. From this study, archaeologists can learn about past societies. Dig into the fun with IAIS’ staff as we uncover what makes archaeology such an interesting subject of study. Do you have a question for an archaeologist? Our staff archaeologists will be on […]