Seasons change. Weather changes. And styles of ceramics change. So at Crossroads, we are thrilled to welcome guest speaker Jennifer Stevens, a member of the Oneida Nation, who will present a program titled “Oneida Pottery” on Thursday, November 10, at 6:30 PM.
Across all three Crossroads preserves, we have discovered small fragments of ancient pots and jars. These artifacts are now curated at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. I once asked some of the UW–M archaeologists why these tiny shards were so important.
They explained that pottery can serve as a kind of historical document. Every design, texture, and shape reveals something about the people who made and used it. Because different cultural groups developed distinctive pottery styles, archaeologists can often identify the time frame and ancestry of the people who lived—or more likely, camped seasonally—at Crossroads long ago.
The researchers added that ceramic styles changed thousands of years ago just as they do today. They compared ancient pots to the tableware currently in use. That metaphor resonated with me as I recently unearthed a few stoneware dishes I purchased in the 1970s. They matched my avocado-green appliances and burnt-orange accent wall. (What was I thinking?)
Pottery designs also reflect the tools and materials used to create them. When I asked for specifics, the archaeologists admitted there is still much to learn. Fortunately, we met Jennifer Stevens, who has done extensive research on traditional Oneida pottery. She has replicated many of the ancient tools and techniques, creating beautiful modern works deeply rooted in her ancestors’ traditions.
In her Crossroads program, this nationally recognized potter and cultural educator will discuss the history and significance of Oneida pottery and display examples of both historical and contemporary work.
Her November 10 program is free, but reservations are required and space is limited. To reserve your spot, visit www.crossroadsatbigcreek.org or call 920-746-5895.
Seasons and winds change even faster than styles. This week, our Science Saturday Family Program will explore the famous “Winds of November,” while our Environmental Exploration will feature a hunt for late-season mushrooms that appear after a cold snap.
We’ve changed our clocks and the weather is changing, but whatever the season, nature provides endless inspiration—so come visit us. Our trails are open all day, every day, free of charge, thanks to the generosity of our donors.
Friday, November 7
1:00 PM — Premiere: THE FISH THIEF: A Great Lakes Mystery
Learn about sea lamprey and the mystery behind how and why the fish most prized by people nearly disappeared. This presentation is free and open to the public, but reservations are required and space is limited. Visit www.crossroadsatbigcreek.org or call 920-746-5895 to reserve a seat. Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.
Monday, November 10
6:30 PM — Oneida Pottery with Jennifer Stevens
Oneida Nation member Jennifer Stevens will explain the tools and techniques employed by her ancestors. This presentation is free and open to the public, but reservations are required and space is limited. Visit www.crossroadsatbigcreek.org or call 920-746-5895 to reserve a seat.
Tuesday, November 11
3:30 PM — Environmental Exploration: Mushrooms
Moisture and a drop in temperature often stimulate fungus to fruit. Geared for elementary students but open to learners of all ages, this mushroom hunt will be outdoors, weather permitting. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.
Wednesday, November 12
1:30 PM — Wandering Wednesday
Join the naturalist on a guided hike through the trails of Crossroads. Free and open to all ages. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.
