History Education News

Updated  Travois Program at the Jeffers Petroglyphs

What was it like for a Dakota American Indian family as they were packing up to move to a different location on the prairie? At the Jeffers Petroglyphs, students listen to traditional stories, while students role-play members of a Dakota family as they prepare to move. Your visit includes a multi-media presentation, a Wintercount activity, hunting a “bison” with a spear and atlatl, and a walk through the prairie to view the American Indian carvings on the Sioux Quartzite rock. Set up a field trip or for more information call 507-628-5591 or email Jeffers Petroglyphs.

Make Your Own Fur Trade Discovery Box Workshop

Are you looking for more hands-on materials? You’ll walk away with a teaching box, filled with props and primary sources related to Minnesota’s fur trade. You’ll also brainstorm with fellow teachers and experience a hands-on fur-trade lesson. Call Jennifer Cadwell at 651-259-3432 or register online. Grades 4-12. $200 ($170 for History Day teachers, Northern Lights users, and MHS members). Tues., May 5, 2009, 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Minnesota History Center.

Hold Class Outside at the James J. Hill House

Programs at the James J. Hill House offer students a glimpse into the Gilded Age. On the home tour, students learn about what their homes have in common with Mr.' Hill's, including electricity, central heat, indoor plumbing, even a security system. Take advantage of Spring weather, and hold class outside. Bring your students on a walking tour of St. Paul's historic Summit Avenue. Tours incorporate a variety of themes including architecture, social history, and historic preservation. The walk is tailored to the grade level, your group. Apply for transportation subsidies from the Sesquicentennial Fund. Schedule a field trip online, or call 651-297-2555.

Transportation Funding Available Through Sesquicentennial Funds

If you’ve already scheduled a field trip to any of these sites between now and June 30, or if you plan on scheduling a field trip during that time, apply online today for a transportation subsidy. Funding is spported by the State of Minnesota through the Minnesota Sesquicentennial Commission’s Grants Program. Subsidies are available for field trips to these museums and historic sites:

• Alexander Ramsey House - just added!
• Charles Lindbergh House - just added!
• Minnesota History Center
• Minnesota State Capitol
• James J. Hill House
• Mille Lacs Indian Museum
• Forest History Center
• North West Company Fur Post
• Jeffers Petroglyphs and
• Historic Forestville

Read all About it! Homeschool Minnesota Book Club

Register for the Homeschool Minnesota Book Club. Students explore literature through hands-on programs that vary by age, visit the History Center’s interactive exhibits, and meet costumed History Player Wanda Gag. Families can participate in a make-your-own art activity. Pre-registration required and closes on April 9th. For more information or to register, call 651-259-3400. Tues., April 14, or Wed., April 15, 2009. 9:30- 2pm. Minnesota History Center. $7 per person ($6 MHS members); free for children age 3 and under.  Museum Adventure Passes not accepted.

Mill City History Player in the Classroom Scholarships

Looking for a field trip alternative? Mill City History Players will come to you! Using props and artifacts, costumed History Players Mary Dodge Woodward and William De La Barre engage students in their memorable life stories. Mill City Museum has a small grant that will provide schools that qualify for 50% or more free and reduced lunch a visit from these characters FREE of charge! Call 612-341-7556 for availability. Maximum class size 60.

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