IMES first-graders Glimpse into Native American Life

From the Katonah-Lewisboro schools

Increase Miller Elementary School first-graders were treated to a hands-on visit from Greenwich-based Bruce Museum mobile educator Patrice Anibal on Nov. 14.

With just a short time until Thanksgiving, the visit focused on Native Americans who resided in environments not unlike Goldens Bridge. Students learned that Native Americans’ shelters in wooded areas are called wigwams.

“Everything had to be made from stone, wood or parts they got from animals,” Anibal told students.

The first-graders examined a model wigwam up close and commented on the materials and the hole in the roof that allowed for smoke to escape, not unlike chimneys.

“I learned how they make houses out of trees,” said student Charlie. “Some of the branches bended instead of breaking.”

Students also felt real animal pelts, including those of a deer and a rabbit, and brainstormed how the pelts may have been used.

“They had a lot of respect for animals because animals gave them life,” said Anibal, who also went into detail about Native American toys, including cornhusk dolls, and instruments – one of which included a mystery material she later revealed as deer toenails.

Student Megan said she was surprised by the use of the animal parts, adding, “It’s cool how they made music back then.”

Photo captions:

• Dawn Ausiello’s first-grade class learned about Native American culture from Bruce Museum mobile educator Patrice Anibal.
• Increase Miller Elementary School first-graders Brandon and Brooke felt a pelt Native American may have used for warmth.

Photos Courtesy of the Katonah-Lewisboro School District