- Trails are open 24/7 at no charge. Enjoy a Winnie-the-Pooh themed TRAIL TALES Storybook Walk.
What’s Happening: Changing Seasons
Seasons change. Weather changes. And styles of ceramics change. So, at Crossroads, we are thrilled to welcome guest speaker Jennifer Stevens, a member of the Oneida Nation, who will present a program titled “Oneida Pottery” on Thursday, November 10, at 6:30 PM.
Across all three Crossroads preserves, we have discovered small fragments of ancient pots and jars. These artifacts are now curated at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. I once asked some of the UW–M archaeologists why these tiny shards were so important.
They explained that pottery can serve as a kind of historical document. Every design, texture, and shape reveals something about the people who made and used it. Because different cultural groups developed distinctive pottery styles, archaeologists often can identify the time frame and ancestry of the people who lived—or more likely, camped seasonally—at Crossroads long ago.
The researchers added that ceramic styles changed thousands of years ago just as they do today. They compared ancient pots to the tableware currently in use. That metaphor resonated with me as I recently unearthed a few stoneware dishes I purchased in the 1970s. They matched my avocado-green appliances and burnt-orange accent wall. (What was I thinking?)
Pottery designs also reflect the tools and materials used to create them. When I asked for specifics, the archaeologists admitted there is still much to learn. Fortunately, we met Jennifer Stevens who has done extensive research on traditional Oneida pottery. She has replicated many of the ancient tools and techniques, creating beautiful modern works deeply rooted in her ancestors’ traditions.
In her Crossroads program, this nationally recognized potter and cultural educator will discuss the history and significance of Oneida pottery and display examples of both historical and contemporary work.
Her November 10 program is free, but reservations are required and space is limited. To reserve your spot, visit www.crossroadsatbigcreek.org or call 920-746-5895.
Seasons and winds change even faster than styles. This week, our Science Saturday Family Program will explore the famous “Winds of November,” while our Environmental Exploration will feature a hunt for late-season mushrooms that appear after a cold snap.
We’ve changed our clocks and the weather is changing, but whatever the season, nature provides endless inspiration—so come visit us. Our trails are open all day, every day, free of charge, thanks to the generosity of our donors.
– by Coggin Heeringa, Interpretive Naturalist
For more information, please check out our Crossroads calendar or stop by the Collins Learning Center and pick up a printed calendar. Our trails are open all day every day, free of charge, thanks to donors like you!
Crossroads at Big Creek Learning Center and Nature Preserve is located at 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay. Crossroads is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to inspiring stewardship of the environment through education, research, and outdoor experiences. We welcome your support.
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