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Snowshoe Making

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Bethel Horizons Nature Center Presents: Snowshoe Making

Spend a weekend learning about the intricate details that go into the construction and design of snowshoes, and the rich history that they share with Native Americans. Bring home your own pair and keep them in your garage!

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Dates

November 22 – 24, 2024

Venue

Bethel Horizons
4651 County Road ZZ
Dodgeville, WI 53533

DIRECTIONS

Designed for

Adults of All Ages

COST

$575.00
Overnight with meals and lodging at the Prairie Center

$350.00
Commuter

What to Expect

Meals served include a Dinner on Friday, all meals throughout Saturday along with a Sunday Breakfast. Linens available upon registration. Participants stay at the Barn Retreat Center down the hill, while workshop lessons are held at the Bethel Horizons Nature Center.

 

Price Includes

  • Cost of snowshoes assembled
  • Meals Friday supper – Sunday breakfast
  • Lodging (for overnight guests) in the Barn Retreat Center Friday and Saturday nights
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Schedule

Friday Evening, November 22nd
Arrival and Welcome

    • Check-In: Settle into your accommodations and get comfortable.
    • Welcome Dinner: Enjoy a meal with fellow participants while learning about the weekend’s schedule and the history of the Ojibwe snowshoe.

Saturday, November 23rd
Learning and Hands-On Crafting

Morning Session: History and Design

  • Introduction to Ojibwe Snowshoes: Gain insight into the cultural significance and traditional uses of snowshoes among the Ojibwe.
  • Historical Context: Learn about how snowshoes were used for hunting, travel, and trade in snowy regions.
  • Design Elements: Explore the unique design features of Ojibwe snowshoes, including their materials, shapes, and construction techniques.

Afternoon Session: Construction Workshop

  • Materials Overview: Review the materials provided, such as wood, rawhide, and bindings, and understand roles in the snowshoe’s function and durability.
  • Crafting Your Snowshoe: Begin the hands-on process of creating your own snowshoe. This may include:
    • Shaping and bending the wood for the frame
    • Weaving the rawhide webbing to create the snowshoe’s deck.
    • Attaching bindings for the foot.

Evening Session: Reflection and Discussion

  • Group Dinner: Share a meal and discuss the day’s experiences.
  • Q&A: Engage in a Q&A session with the instructor to deepen your understanding and address any challenges faced during the crafting process.

Sunday, November 24th
Final Touches and Departure

Morning Session: Finishing Touches

  • Final Assembly: Complete your snowshoe by adding any final touches, ensuring that everything is securely fastened and functional.
  • Care Instructions: Learn how to maintain and care for your snowshoe to ensure its longevity and performance.

Afternoon Session: Farewell

  • Showcase: Share and admire the snowshoes created by fellow participants.
  • Closing Remarks: Reflect on the weekend’s learning and experiences.
  • Departure: Check out and head home with your new snowshoe and a deeper appreciation for Ojibwe craftsmanship and culture.
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