Looking to dive into history without the sunburn? The Morton Museum of Collierville History is offering a cool opportunity for those interested in local heritage with its lineup of free workshops this July, geared towards adults aged 16 and over. Each Thursday this month, join experts for sessions on archaeology, law, and folklife that promise to uncover the layers of Collierville's past without costing a dime.
The series kicks off on July 11 from 1:30-3:00pm with "Archaeology in Collierville" helmed by Neecole Gregory, the museum’s Collections and Special Projects Coordinator, whose academic journey weaves through a B.A. in Archaeology / Classical Studies from Randolph-Macon College and culminates with an M.A. and a Museum Studies certificate from the University of Memphis, meanwhile, her experience spans international archaeological digs both terrestrial and submerged, according to the event description on the municipal website.
Following Gregory’s workshop will be an exploration of "Cemetery Law in Tennessee" with Graham Perry on July 18, and rounding out the month is "Collecting Folklife in Your Own Backyard" with Tony Kail on July 25. The museum seems poised to offer an engaging peek into the historical tapestry of the community. Through these workshops, participants will gain unique insights led by knowledgeable enthusiasts eager to share their expertise.
Detailed by the Morton Museum, Gregory's session will guide participants through foundational concepts of archaeological field work exposing them to several local digs that have occurred in Collierville, after which attendees will craft their own replicas of Mississippian vessels utilizing air dry clay akin to those that grace the museum’s collection, making for a hands-on experience that is both educational and potentially messy, but most certainly enriched with the kind of local color that can only be unearthed through a dedication to preserving and understanding one's communal origins.
