On Thursday, June 21, from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. get ready for an evening of fun, stories and strawberries with the staff of the American Indian Archeological Institute in Washington Connecticut. Participants on this adventure will learn about the significance of the summer solstice in various cultures and how it has been celebrated around the world.
The word solstice comes from the Latin words for sun and to stop because, on this particular day, the sun appears to pause in the sky when it reaches its northernmost point from the equator. As you stroll along the forest path, you will learn about the many interesting rituals and celebrations that are practiced by Native Americans. The "medicine wheel," for example, is considered to be a celestial observatory built hundreds of years ago by the Plains Indians to indicate where the sun rose and set on the summer solstice; while the Pueblo Indians created a solar marking site at Fajada Butte in Chaco Canyon. In Connecticut, according to the New England Historical Society, there are 62 ancient stone structures that are oriented to the stars and planets.
The Summer Solstice Walk concludes in a 17th-century authentic replica of the Institute's Algonkian Village. The perfect conclusion to the walk is to sit by the fire and listen to the stories that have come down to us from the ages as the shadows fall around the surrounding wigwams. A special strawberry treat will be served. As one of the first fruits of summer, Native Americans believe that strawberries represent life and good health.
The Institute for American Indian Studies
Located on 15 woodland acres the IAIS has an outdoor Three Sisters and Healing Plants Gardens as well as a replicated 16th c. Algonkian Village. Inside the museum, authentic artifacts are displayed in permanent, semi-permanent and temporary exhibits from prehistory to the present that allows visitors a walk through time. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut and can be reached online or by calling 860-868-0518.
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