Strawtown Koteewi Park in Hamilton County, Indiana is billed as a must see for any history buff, but even I found it fascinating. It plays host to a real, live archaeological dig. For 3 weeks each year, they open the site to the public. This year, through October 3rd, you can help find relics of a semi-subterranean double-walled dwelling structure (say that 3 times fast)!
I visited the park last week with my daughter’s class. It was incredibly cool to be a part of the excavation. Visitors are invited to assist with sifting dirt. Our group found a scraper tool, several stone flakes and a few pieces of pottery. The children were amazed and enthusiastic with each discovery. Even my youngest, who tagged along for the ride, enjoyed digging in the dirt.
If archaeology is not your thing, the park also has a canoe launch, equestrian trails, wetlands and prairies. (We were also givien a sneak peek at an ongoing project—their sledding hills should be ready by winter 2011.) Because this is a public park, it is a completely free experience.
With 2 Saturdays left in this year’s archaeological event, you still have the opportunity to plan a unique family day. Maybe your family will make the next, big archaeological discovery—after all, it was a water boy who found the entrance to Tut’s tomb.
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