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Trip to the American Museum in Bath

We went to Bath to learn about Native Americans. We dressed up as 'squaws' (girls) and 'braves' (boys) and went inside a real tipi!

Year 1 visited the American Museum in Bath as part of their Native American topic. This year was slightly different from previous years as the museum itself was out of action due to refurbishment of the basement where a new Native American exhibition is to be housed. The curators did us proud however as we were whisked round three activities.

The first of these was a story telling session which led to each small group creating their own story which was scribed by an adult. The results were varied and interesting and they were read out for all to enjoy.

We then moved on to a dressing up session where a “Brave” and a “Squaw” were chosen to be kitted out in authentic Plains Indian costumes. Our guide explained the many interesting facets of each item as she went along. The finished result was impressive and our two models looked splendid.

The last part of the morning was a “hands on” session in the log cabin. The children were seated at tables on which there were a wide variety of Native American artifacts including a buffalo horn and a birch bark bowl. The children were free to handle and examine these at close quarters. After they had sketched an object of their choice our guide explained what the objects were and their use. The children were fascinated to learn about so many amazing things.

After a welcome lunch it was time for a play in the grounds followed by a visit to a real tipi! Quite a few children said they would like to spend the night in one but, having recently learned the rules of the tipi, the Squaws amongst us did not relish standing all evening and serving the Braves their food!

The children had a fascinating day and the experience has enhanced our topic tremendously.

Read pupil accounts of the trip.

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