2005 EXHIBIT

Starting on April 11 and running until June 19, the Oxbow Archaeologists, an affiliate group of CNC, will have a special exhibit at the Midland Center for the Arts (MCFTA), Alden B. Dow Museum. “We were asked to contribute an exhibit about our local activities because of the natural tie-in to the current ‘Egypt in the Land of the Pharaohs’ display” says Oxbow (and CNC Board) member Marianne McKelvy. She added “Did you know that archaeologists have found artifacts in Midland County that actually predate the Pyramids in Egypt by several thousands of years”?

The exhibit entitled “Archaeology Next Door” will focus on the excavations, research activities and contributions of the group and will include a display of some of the artifacts they’ve recovered and preserved. The exhibit also explores the contribution of the Oxbow Group to the understanding of the land and the people who have called Midland County home over the last 10,000 years. In addition to the artifacts and their importance, current and recent projects, and numerous photos of their activities are included in the display. The group seeks to show that archaeology is a careful and formalized scientific methodology, not treasure hunting.

The Oxbow Archaeologists are a local group of professionally mentored avocational archaeologists who have been working to preserve Midland County’s archaeological history since the 1960s. “Archaeology isn’t only happening a world away; it’s taking place in Midland with the Oxbow Archaeologists”, says Dennis Pilaske, Director of Interpretation at CNC. He added “For over 30 years Chippewa Nature Center and the Oxbow Archaeologists have actively carried out archaeological excavation, research, analysis, publication and exhibition”. The same techniques used in past and current Egyptian excavations are being used today in the Midland area by the Oxbow group.

CNC and the Oxbow Archaeologists have a long track record of preserving Midland County’s rich Archaeological history. By piecing together the lifestyles of the areas earliest Native American and European inhabitants the Oxbow Group has made significant contributions to the understanding of Midland County’s prehistory and history. “This exhibit is a unique opportunity for us to bring our work to a broader audience”, says Oxbow member Kevin Frazier.

Please consider visiting the display. (Note: normal admission charges to the MCFTA Egyptian exhibit apply.)