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Flint Knap-In to be Held at Knife River indain Villages National Historic Site

Join us for the Flint Knap-In at Knife River Indian Villages NHS on Saturday, June 22, 2013 from 9:00-4:00 pm CDT. Four Flint knappers will be demonstrating the art of flint knapping and visitors will have the opportunity to watch and try their hand at shaping flint into tools.

John Martinson, Marv Becker, Bill Ihm, and Irene Graves will demonstrate the ancient art by making flint arrowheads, knife blades, and spear points. Some of the finished pieces may be available to purchase.

Flint knapping was an important skill practiced for thousands of years at the Knife River Villages. Native artisans favored the durable Knife River flint which was quarried 60 miles west of the villages and traded across North America. Flint knappers today keep this ancient craft alive by sharing their knowledge at special events across the country.

Superintendent Wendy Ross says, "We are fortunate to have a group of expert flint knappers who are eager to share their skill in shaping various tools similar to historic artifacts found in the park. This is a great chance for people to see how knapping styles, techniques, and creativity differ between artisans. Visitors will have a glimpse into an activity commonly seen in historic village life."

The Knap-In is the park's first special event this summer searson. All of the events at the park are free. Other events scheduled for the summer include Kid's Camp, Music fo the Villages, and Hands on History. Knife River Indian VIllages NHS is located 1/2 mile north of Stanton on County Road 37. For more information, contact the park at 701-745-3300.