Meadowcroft to host annual atlatl competition and special rockshelter tour
Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village outside Avella will host two special programs Saturday, offering visitors the opportunity to experience prehistoric technology in action and explore one of North America’s most significant archaeological sites alongside one of the experts who helped uncover its history.
Guests can participate in Meadowcroft’s annual atlatl competition, a friendly, all-skill-level event that invites visitors to test their aim using the ancient spear-throwing tool once used by prehistoric hunters.
Participants will compete for the day’s highest score on bullseye targets, while expert throwers from the World Atlatl Association demonstrate their skills and share tips throughout the day.
The atlatl Competition is included with regular admission and will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Meanwhile, Dr. Diane Beynon Landers, an original member of the 1974 excavation team led by Dr. James Adovasio, will lead a special behind-the-scenes tour of the Meadowcroft Rockshelter.
Landers will present the story of the Rockshelter and its excavation, sharing insights into the massive rock overhang that sheltered the region’s earliest inhabitants more than 19,000 years ago.
Guests will then tour the National Historic Landmark and learn more about the discoveries that helped establish Meadowcroft as the oldest known site of human habitation in North America.
The tour will take place from 10 a.m. to noon. Advance registration is required.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit heinzhistorycenter.org/events.