Hands-on learning of the past in Tuam

Event in Tuam Library was a success

CHILDREN were excited to learn about archaeology and play with various ancient tools during a National Heritage Week event in Tuam Library.

The ‘Ask the Archaeologist’ event featured an interactive workshop by Galway Community Archaeologist Bernie Doherty. She introduced the attendees to some archaeological artifacts, fossils and milling tools used by communities in different eras.

Archaeologist in the making, fourth-class pupil in Tuam, Vivian Adrian cancelled his visit to the Fun Fair in Galway and asked his mum to bring him to the workshop instead.

He told The Tuam Herald that he has a great interest in archaeology and the workshop was very exciting for him.

His favourite part were the fossils that he was able to touch and hold.

“It seemed like it’s a fossil from a dinosaur”, he said.

Amy Flaherty was there with her two children Jack and Hannah. “It’s a fantastic experience not just for the children but for adults as well. We are also learning something new along with them,” she said.

Hannah and Jack tried their hand with the manual stone mills which were used for grinding grains in the past.

Archaeologist Bernie Doherty explained that she uses the replicas of tools and sand boxes to let the children get more involved and understand what is being showed to them.

“Generally, in museums or other archaeological sites, people are not allowed to touch things. So, here we have replica artifacts and tools which are used to let people get a hands-on experience,” she explained.

Ms Doherty also uses sand boxes and sticks to recreate historical monuments which has proven to be one of the most enjoyable activities for children.

“Children often associate archaeology with fossils or dinosaurs but it is actually the study of human activity,” she continued.

"Through events like these I give them an insight into Irish archaeology, along with our natural and cultural heritage,” she added.