Archaeological Oddities with Dr. Ken Feder

The Institute for American Indian Studies 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT, United States

Did ancient Native Americans live among dinosaurs and did they paint the image of a pterodactyl in Black Dragon Canyon in Utah? Or, did ancient Native Americans interact with travelers from outer space and produce rock art depicting these extraterrestrial visitors to America? Did ancient Jewish visitors to the New World leave a message etched […]

14th Annual Native American-Archaeology Roundtable

Wamogo Regional Highschool 98 Womogo Road, LItchfield, CT, United States

“Recent Discoveries in Connecticut Archaeology: New Light on Old Histories " In the past few years, several significant archaeological sites were discovered, rediscovered, and excavated in Connecticut. They range in age from the deepest history of the Paleo-Indians, dating to over 10,000 years ago, to 18th century Colonial America.  The sites include both Native American […]

First Light Flashback Presentation with Annawon Weeden

The Institute for American Indian Studies 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT, United States

Come travel through time with actor, activist, dancer, and Tribal mentor Annawon Weeden to gain a unique perspective on the Native history of Southern New England. Drawing on his Mashpee Wampanoag, Narragansett, and Pequot lineage, Weeden will share his personal experiences and explore the Tribal history of The People of the Dawn from before European […]

Native American Courting Flute with Allan Madahbee

The Institute for American Indian Studies 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT, United States

The hauntingly beautiful voice of these mystical instruments has intrigued music lovers and musicians for centuries. But why does the flute hold such importance in Native American culture? Join Allan Madahbee, Ojibwe artist and musician, for an interactive presentation that marks the first in a series of presentations by Native artists in the region. Allan will […]

LHAC Lecture: Environmental  Injustice in Indian Country – POSTPONED

The Institute for American Indian Studies 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT, United States

This Event is Postponed.  Environmental injustice is an ongoing threat to indigenous peoples globally as their lands are stripped for mining, logging, farming, ranching and storage of spent nuclear fuels. The Litchfield Hills Archaeology Club welcomes Dr. Laurie Weinstein, Professor Emerita of Anthropology at Western Connecticut State University, for a presentation about North American indigenous […]

Lovers Leap Legends: A Discussion with Leland and Crystal Payton

Join IAIS' Assistant Director/Curator in a discussion regarding the proliferation of Lover's Leap sites throughout the United States with the authors of Lover's Leap Legends: From Sappho of Lesbos to Wah Wah Tee of Waco, Leland and Crystal Payton (Lense and Pen Press, 2020). We look forward to a lively discussion, and join the conversation […]

LHAC Lecture Series: Environmental Injustice in Indian Country

Environmental injustice is an ongoing threat to indigenous peoples globally as their lands are stripped for mining, logging, farming, ranching and storage of spent nuclear fuels. Join Dr. Laurie Weinstein, Professor Emerita of Anthropology at Western Connecticut State University, along with museum staff for an online presentation as part of the Litchfield Hills Archaeology Club […]

Wampum-Making Demonstration with Allen Hazard

The Institute for American Indian Studies 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT, United States

There is often a misconception that wampum was a form of currency for Native peoples. Rather, the Native peoples of New England traditionally considered these shell beads to be a sacred gift. In modern times, Native artists continue to use quahog shell to make intricate artwork and preserve cultural traditions. Join Allen Hazard, a renowned […]

The Taínos of the Caribbean in the Age of the First European Conquest Online Presentation

Online Event

As we recognize the final weekend of Hispanic Heritage Month, join us in welcoming Dr. Mary Ann Mahony, Professor of Latin American History at CCSU, for an online presentation on the Taínos – the indigenous people of Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. In other words, the Taínos were the people who “met Columbus,” in the […]

The Science and Tradition of Dugout Canoes

For thousands of years, the Native inhabitants of the Eastern Woodlands were able to make dugout canoes using natural materials found in their environment. Want to get an in depth look at how these vessels were made? Join Museum Assistant Lydia Downs, a graduate student in the Maritime Studies Program at Eastern Carolina University, for […]