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County museum presents Native American basket weaving class

Left: Public Engagement Coordinator Aidan Brady leans over a table between Casey Callahan and Teri Carman. Brady is demonstrating with a small wooden disk with rattan cane sticking out of it. Both Callahan and Carman hold similar items.

Composite Photo No. 1 - Casey Callahan and Teri Carman of Green River making Native American reed baskets at the Sweetwater County Historical Museum on Saturday, under instruction from Public Engagement Coordinator Aidan Brady. At right, Carman and Callahan pose with their finished baskets.

 

(Sweetwater County, Wyo. - July 6, 2024)     The Sweetwater County Historical Museum hosted a Native American basket weaving class in Green River on Saturday, with Public Engagement Coordinator Aidan Brady providing hands-on instruction and historical context.

“In an age of plastic storage containers, cans, steel and aluminum pots, cardboard boxes, and glass jars,” he said, “we tend to overlook the importance of hand-woven baskets to countless generations of traditional Native Americans for storing, carrying, and preserving food and many other items.”

Using timeless techniques, attendees made their own reed baskets, which they took home once the course was complete.

Those interested in learning more about museum programs, including educators, parents, and parent-teacher groups, are encouraged to contact Brady at (307) 872-6435 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The museum is located at 3 E. Flaming Gorge Way in Green River. Museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and there is no charge for admission.