The Ohlone: Native Peoples
of the Santa Cruz Region
Mural of everyday life in an Ohlone village |
Framed by an enormous mural depicting every day life in an Ohlone village, the Native Peoples of Santa Cruz exhibit explores life in Santa Cruz prior to the arrival of Europeans. Artifacts, baskets and images bring to life the cultural traditions of local native people, both past and present. Examples of native basketry, beadwork and stone implements can be found throughout the exhibit. Real mortar and pestles are available for young and old to try their hand at grinding acorns. Acorns were an important food source for the Ohlone people prior to the Mission period. The Ohlone were semi-nomadic, therefore little remains of their villages, tools and art. This museum is one of the few places where you can see artifacts from this important local group.
This Ohlone exhibit becomes center stage for one of the Museum's school program offerings. Children grades preschool - 4 learn more about the daily life of the Ohlone as part of a docent guided program, arranged by grade level.
Learn more about docent-guided programs
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