CE branch sheds light on Eglin's ancient past

  • Published
  • By Scott Moorman
  • Environmental Outreach
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Eglin archeologists are preserving the past by educating children. 

The 96th Civil Engineer Group's Environmental Management, Cultural Resources Section will participate in two educational public outreach events in November. The first, the 22nd Annual Thunderbird Intertribal Powwow, Children's Day, Nov. 6, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Niceville Mullet Festival Grounds The second is Pioneer Day 2009, Nov. 7, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., at the Rocky Bayou State Park, Niceville. 

"Outreach is an important part of the cultural resources program, because it provides information about Eglin and the surrounding communities' past," said Lynn Shreve, 96th CEG Historic Structures program manager. "The displays we provide at various events are often hands-on where children can learn about the people that lived here before this land was Eglin, the history of the base and community and why it is important to protect these resources for future generations." 

Ms. Shreve said her office takes advantage of local events to educate students through displays of recovered artifacts found on Eglin that represent cultures that existed from 8,000 years ago through the 1940s and the historic development of Eglin AFB. 

She said it's also important for children to learn about historic eras and the value of protecting cultural resources in a fun and informative environment. 

One of the ways they accomplish this is by taking their exhibits on the road that include displays and interactive activities. 

"The Powwow gives us an opportunity to demonstrate some of the pottery techniques used by American Indians. The children can then make and decorate a miniature vessel to take home," she said. "Pioneer Day allows us to focus on the turpentine industry that was so vital to this community during the Rural Expansion Period (1881-1940)." 

The Cultural Resource Branch also maintains an interpretive center which contains a variety of displays and multi-media exhibits. They provide presentations and tours to local universities and training to base employees. 

"If people haven't had the chance to attend either of these events, it's a great way to learn more about Eglin and community history, while spending time with the family," said Ms. Shreve.