Galveston Historical Foundation Marks Native American Month With Kids’ Cultural Program

Long before Spanish explorers landed on Galveston Island, Native Americans lived, hunted and even buried their dead along the island’s far western shores.

On Saturday, Nov. 14, the Galveston Historical Foundation will pay homage to the country’s original residents with a presentation and hands-on demonstrations about Native American culture for children 6 to 12 years old. The activities are scheduled on the grounds of Galveston’s oldest surviving dwelling, the Michel B. Menard House. Michel B. Menard, who commissioned the building of the house in 1838, and who was a founder of the city of Galveston, was known as a man respectful of Native culture who had lived among many tribes.

Ray Olachia, a Mescalero Apache, will bring Native American cultural history to life with presentations on flint-knapping, tools, weapons, clothing, beadwork, domestic life. Religion, recreation and other aspects of American Indian life will be demonstrated on the grounds.

Galveston Historical Foundation is pleased to host this special presentation as part of Native American Month, an observance first enacted by a joint resolution of Congress in 1990.

When: November 14, 2009, 10 a.m. to 12 a.m.

Where: Michel B. Menard House, 1605 33rd Street

Registration: $15 per student (under 17). All craft materials will be provided. Children who participate must be accompanied by an adult chaperone. To register, call
409-765-7834.