Atlatl Workshop & Competition @ Institute for American Indian Studies

 

Atl means far. Think of the effort it takes to throw a spear far. Using an ancient weapon called an atlatl, you can throw a spear very far with minimal effort. An atlatl is a precursor to the bow and arrows and was used in hunting by Native Americans, along with many other cultures worldwide. Essentially, it is a throwing device using a spear, known as a dart, that uses leverage to give it more velocity. 

On Sunday, May 21 at 11 a.m. the Institute for American Indian Studies, located at 38 Curtis Road in Washington, Connecticut, is holding an Atlatl Workshop with the Institute’s educator, Susan Scherf. During this workshop, suitable for adults, as well as children eight years and up, participants will learn about the fascinating history and different designs of this ancient tool and how it was used. A highlight is to learn how to make your own atlatl and to develop skills to be able to accurately use it. 

Atlatl Supplies

Once you get the hang of it, launching a dart with an atlatl is easy to do because it is similar to throwing a baseball. The difference is that you are flipping your wrist at the end of the throw. You will have plenty of time to experiment using your atlatl to find out what works best for you. Participants will learn how timing, balance, consistency, and follow-through lead to accuracy. Thrown correctly, darts can travel close to 80 miles per hour! After several practice throws, the group will join together for a “just for fun” competition. 

Make your own Atlatl to take home!

Space and materials are limited and registration is required. Please note that a parent or guardian must accompany children under 18. The cost of this workshop is $20 for members of the Institute and $25 for non-members. To register click here. If you have questions, please email events@iaismuseum.org. 

About The Institute for American Indian Studies

Located on 15 acres of woodland acres the Institute For American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have a 16th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present allow visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is at 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.