Meteor showers and interstellar comets have been in the news recently. Ken Zoll, VVAC’s Director Emeritus will present a talk entitled, Meteorite Use Among the Ancient People of Arizona. Ken has been working with Arizona State University’s Buseck Center for Meteorite Studies on meteorites found at Native American cultural and heritage sites in the Verde Valley and beyond. 

The occurrence of meteorites at archaeological sites in North America has been known since the early 19th Century. From the Hopewell culture in the Eastern United States to the Indians in the American Southwest, meteorites have been found on these ancient sites. Much like meteorite hunters of today, ancient Native American cultures actively engaged in meteorite collecting. Meteorites were used as a source of rare iron to craft tools, weapons, and ceremonial objects. Considered sacred, due to their celestial origin, meteorites were incorporated into rituals and burial practices. 

Meteorite fragments from Meteor Crater near Flagstaff have been discovered at ten locations in Central Arizona. Since 1975, they were assumed to have been transported by Native Americans to those locations. In a soon to be released research paper, Ken explains that this 50-year-old assumption is incorrect and explains how they arrived at their discovered location.

Following Ken Zoll’s engaging talk join us for holiday cheer! A reception featuring hors d’oeuvres, wine, and beverages. As well as seasonal tunes performed by Indigo a renowned Jazz Trio!

Tickets

$30 for VVAC Members, Native Americans and Veterans 

$40 for Non-Members

Per person ticket includes admission to the Meteorite presentation and the holiday reception with hors d'oeuvres, wine, and beverages. As well as the live-band. 

Due to limited seating tickets will sell fast, reserve your spot before tickets are sold out!

Purchase tickets here: https://verdevalleyarchaeology.doubleknot.com/event/meteorite-use-among-the-ancient-people-of-arizona-presentation-and-holiday-reception/3122377