June 5 - Traditional Native American Bark Basket Workshop At Institute for American Indian Studies

Native Americans have created baskets for centuries. In fact, archeologists believe that basket-making is one of the oldest known crafts in the world. If you have always wanted to learn how to create a bark basket of your own, join this in-person workshop conducted by Jennifer Lee of Pequot and Narragansett ancestry on Sunday, June 5 at the Institute of American Indian Studies located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington, Connecticut. This four-hour workshop begins at 11 a.m. and has a break for lunch. 

About Native American Baskets 

Baskets have been an integral part of Native American material culture for centuries. Native American baskets range from very simple to very elaborate. Often the art of basket making was passed down from generation to generation among Native American Indian mothers to their daughters. It is a skill that takes place of pride among many Indigenous people today. Bark baskets made by Eastern Woodland Indians were used for cooking, gathering berries, hauling water, storing food, as cradleboards, and even burying the dead. Most often baskets were made from pine, ash or birch bark that was harvested in the spring when the bark was most pliable. The bark was then folded into the desired shape and sewn together with spruce root and rimmed with arrowwood or other natural materials. 

• White Pine Bark mokok with collar (4 ½H x 7W x 3D)

About the Workshop 

Jennifer Lee is an 18th-century re-enactor and material culture presenter. Bark basket making is one of the programs that she offers. "I want my programs to dispel old stereotypes and increase awareness of present-day Native Americans," says Lee. 

Participants in this workshop will learn about the lore and tradition of basket making from Lee while creating their very own bark basket. A highlight is to learn about how baskets were used in every day life and what role they play in Native American communities today. Lee will guide participants through the process of creating a bark basket using white pine bark, spruce root, and willow. During the scheduled lunch break (please bring your own snack and non- alcoholic beverage) participants can wander through the museum for inspiration and brainstorm with others for ideas. 

• White Pine Bark mokok with collar (7H x 4W x 3D).

Participants can choose from three different basket designs that include a white pine bark wall pocket, and two sizes of a white pine bark mokok with collar. Whatever basket you choose to make, it is something unique to treasure at the end of the day. 

Space is limited for this workshop that is expected to sell out, so sign up early. To participate, please register and pre-pay by June 2. The cost of participation, including all materials and tools is $75 for members of the Institute and $85 for non- members. To register click here. If you have questions call (860) 868-0518 or email events@iaismuseum.org. 

• White Pine bark wall pocket, curved bottom (7H x 7W x 4D)

About the Insitute 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 that allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located on 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.