Have a Field Day With a Spear-Thrower

Do you know what an atlatl is? Neither did we, so we looked it up. Turns out it's a term for a spear-thrower -- not someone who throws a spear, but rather an ancient tool with which you throw a dart...or a spear.

If you'd like to get in some practice this weekend with an ancient spear-thrower, stop down to the Rebecca Nurse Homestead. You can take aim at a mammoth or woolly rhinoceros. The paper version, not the real thing. Oh, and it's advised that you get a Mammoth Hunting Permit first for $5.

The Mass. Archaeological Society Northeast Chapter is holding an Atlatl Field Day Saturday, Oct. 12 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Danvers homestead at 149 Pine St.

In addition to learning about the ancient hunting practice, there will also be displays and vendors for further archaeological and historical exploration.

Admission to the Rebecca Nurse Homestead is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, $4 for ages 6-16 and children under six are free. The $5 donation for the hunting permit will benefit future Atlatl Day events by the archaeological society.

Bob and Cheryl Berg of Thunderbird Atlatl will also be special guests for the day with a workshop from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. on how to make your own ancient spear-thrower and darts. You need to a reserve a spot for the workshop, which costs $65. Email info.nechapter@massarchaeology.org

Visit www.massarchaelogy.org and www.rebeccanurse.org for more information.