Research into archeological collections from Ozark bluff shelters

One of the most interesting aspects of archeology in the Arkansas Ozarks is the many dry bluff shelters and caves that have been intermittently occupied for 10,000 years. The dry conditions created in these caves and shelters provide a rare glimpse of the kinds of artifacts that usually rot in the wet climate of the Southeastern United States such as baskets, clothing, and wooden implement handles.

The Arkansas Archeological Survey has begun a multi-year research project related to this class of sites. The first phase of this project digitized important records from early bluff shelter excavations. Much has changed in the field of archeology since the 1920s. Knowledge of both field methods and culture history has increased, thus the new bluff shelter studies.

Dr. Jamie Brandon is the Research Station Archeologist with the Arkansas Archeological Survey responsible for the counties in Northwest Arkansas and most of the Arkansas Ozarks, some 13,000 square miles. By virtue of his position, Dr. Brandon is also an Associate Research Professor of Anthropology at the University of Arkansas--Fayetteville. He currently leads the multi-year research project to investigate bluff shelter sites across the Ozarks. According to Brandon, "We are getting new information from old collections...information about plant domestication and information about technology change. These studies also include new diggings as well in Carroll County, Arkansas."

Dr. Brandon's presentation at Hobbs State Park will outline the history of archeology in the region, examine the "bluff dweller" concept and its implications, and summarize current research on bluff shelters in Arkansas. Don't miss this fascinating discussion of new ways to look at old (and new) Ozark bluff research.

When: 2 p.m. Saturday, March 10, 2018

Where: Hobbs State Park visitor center located on Ark. Hwy. 12 just east of the

Hwy. 12/War Eagle Road intersection

Cost: Free -- The public is invited

For information, call: 479-789-5000

To learn more about upcoming Friends of Hobbs speakers and other park programs, go to: http://www.friendsofhobbs.com/ and www.ArkansasStateParks.com/hobbsstateparkconservationarea

Sallyann Brown to Head Fly Fishing Workshop

Those who wish to learn the basics of fly casting will want to attend the Fly Casting 101 workshop to be held at the Hobbs State Park -- Conservation Area visitor center from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 29, 2018. Two hours of instruction will be in the classroom, and two hours will be outside. Participants will learn four basic casts, the six basic types of flies, (lures) how to cast and "play" the flies in the water, how to read water, how to wade, how to purchase and assemble your equipment, how to store your equipment, as well as how to tie the four basic knots used by fly fishers. All equipment will be provided.

The workshop will be taught by Sallyann Brown, past recipient of the "Woman of the Year" and the "Federation of Fly Fishers Educator of the Year" awards from the Federation of Fly Fishers, Inc.

When: noon - 4 p.m. Sunday, April 29, 2018

Where: The workshop will be held at the Hobbs State Park visitor center

Minimum age is 12 yrs. Cost: $35 per person + tax. Reservations and pre-payment required. For questions, and to register call: 479-789-5000.