Just beneath the surface of the dry and dusty Colorado desert soil, and beneath the rays of an intense summer sun, evidence exists that an ancient Indian civilization once thrived. A modern day Native American student, under the guidance of a skilled archaeologist, reaches out to touch a fragment of pottery made by a Pueblo Indian more than one thousand years ago. A spiritual connection is made between what has gone before and what is to come. Could this be you? Crow Canyon’s High School Archaeology Camp takes students back in time by studying the culture, civilization, agriculture, and day-to-day activities of an ancient people.
I spent a week at Crow Canyon Archaeological Center as a Native American student scholarship recipient during the summer of 2012. Among my most cherished memories are the amber and purple skies of early evening pierced by magnificent mountains and flattened mesas, the feel of sun-warmed earth clinging to my fingertips, and the smiles and laughter of new friends and campmates from all across the United States. Days include study of the Pueblo people, hikes, digs, and fun evening campfires. Crow Canyon is not simply a camp for those interested in archaeology; it’s an experience that connects you with an important page of Native history in North America. So, pull out your hiking boots, a long-sleeve shirt for cool refreshing mountain evenings, and your favorite sun-shielding hat, and spend a week participating in a spirit-filled experience at Crow Canyon Archaeological Center.
The camp is scheduled for July 21-27. Info: www.crowcanyon.org or (800) 422-8975.
Note: Each year, senior class students at Murphy High School are challenged to commit to a community service project which could potentially have a positive impact on those in our extended communities. Constance Owl, an EBCI tribal member, has chosen such a project which will spotlight several opportunities available specifically to Native American high school students. Her hope is to connect many EBCI youth to academically enriching adventures, experiences, and opportunities available to Native students. Please feel free to contact her via The Cherokee One Feather to share information you may have about programs or organizations with Native student directed opportunities.
