From Stones to Birds … Weekend Events at Moundville Park

From Stones to Birds … Weekend Events at Moundville Park

Firemaking is another ancient technology that has been featured at Moundville Knap-In.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The University of Alabama’s Moundville Archaeological Park is hosting two fun-filled and educational events the weekend of July 21 — its annual Knap-In and Birdfest 2017.

17th Annual Knap-In

The community is invited to explore the ancient art of flintknapping during the annual Knap-In July 21 and 22.

Flintknapping is an ancient Indian technique for chipping stone into tools and weapons. In the last 20 years, this ancient art has been revitalized and is shared by hundreds of craftspeople called “knappers.”

Knappers demonstrate, gladly teaching others their art, as they replicate stone tools from prehistoric times. This event is perfect for the history enthusiast or for those lovers of hunting, fishing and basic survival technologies.

Other skills, including making bows and arrows and carved stone objects, will also be demonstrated and taught at the park, which is operated by The University of Alabama Museums. Visitors will have an opportunity to test a spear thrower or toss rabbit sticks in the nearby target range.

The event will include a children’s area, which will be open both days, where young visitors can make crafts and play games. Juanita Gardinski, of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, will provide food concessions, including frybread and Indian tacos.

The Knap-In will be July 21 and July 22.

Coosa is a Barred Owl saved by the Alabama Wildlife Center.

Birdfest 2017

As a member of the West Alabama Birding Trail, Moundville Archaeological Park has held a bird outing as part of its Saturday in the Park program for the last several years. Expert birders will offer bird walks and presentations, and Alabama Wildlife will have live raptors and other birds to show guests. Craft time will be available for visitors.

The Birdfest will be July 22.

Each event runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and both are free with regular paid admission to the park. Park admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors 55 years and older and $6 for students. Children 5 and younger and residents of Moundville are admitted free.

Moundville is located 13 miles south of Tuscaloosa off Alabama Highway 69.

Contact

Kim Eaton, UA media relations, 205/348-8325, kkeaton@ur.ua.edu