Canku Ota

(Many Paths)

An Online Newsletter Celebrating Native America

February 7, 2004 - Issue 106

Heritage Center Announces Ute Culture Loan Plan

DOLORES, Colo. — The BLM Anasazi Heritage Center invites educators from museums, libraries, schools, scout groups, and 4-H to use the new loan kit, The Bear Dance: Window to Ute Culture. The kit will be available from the museum beginning in March.

Interpreting the prehistoric, historic, and contemporary traditions of the people of the Four Corner’s region is part of the Anasazi Heritage Center’s mission. The Bear Dance: Window to Ute Culture is the first loan kit created by the museum staff to fulfill this mission for contemporary and historic people, according to a news release. The kit contains many hands-on items such as a drum, a dance shawl, and boy’s gauntlets. Additionally, books, videos, and lesson plans are provided to help students have a fun and meaningful experience.

The Bear Dance theme and associated stories, crafts, and activities are a beginning place for understanding a complex history and a rich tradition. Three supporting activities focus on the general history of the Ute people, the Hand Game, and the tradition of beadwork. The activities can be adapted for students from early elementary through high school level. The information sheets are written at about the fifth grade level. Additional resources are identified for teachers who would like to deepen their students’ knowledge and who may have time for more.

Great care and effort was made to involve Ute people in the research and creation of this learning kit. Teachers are encouraged to further involve Ute people in their classroom by referring to the kit’s guest speakers and craft demonstrators list, or contacting the Ute tribal office nearest your community.

The BLM Anasazi Heritage Center is a museum featuring exhibits on archaeology, history, and regional Native American cultures. The AHC is operated by the Bureau of Land Management, and is headquarters for Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. The museum and archaeological sites are three miles west of Dolores on Colorado 184.

Reservations can be made now by calling Suzan Craig, (970)882-5620. Teachers may borrow the kit free of charge for up to two-week time periods.

The Anasazi Heritage Center
http://www.co.blm.gov/ahc/

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