Madison, Wisconsin – The Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts & Letters, in partnership with Rutabaga Paddlesports, will present Canoe Conundrum: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Ho-Chunk Nation’s Dugout Canoes in Lake Mendota, a unique opportunity to connect with the science of surviving artifacts and to deepen understanding of the Ho-Chunk people and culture. On Thursday, June 8th, from 6:00 to 7:00 pm, Canoe Conundrum will feature a presentation by Bill Quackenbush, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for the Ho-Chunk Nation, and Dr. Amy Rosebrough, the Interim Wisconsin State Archaeologist. This will be a hybrid event, with the in-person experience held at Rutabaga Paddlesports in Madison, WI. In-person guests are encouraged to arrive early at 5:00 pm for a social hour prior to the talk.
Canoe Conundrum
Thursday, June 8, 2023
6:00 to 7:00 pm
Rutabaga Paddlesports • Madison, WI
Virtual Attendance Available via Zoom Dr. James Skibo, the former Wisconsin State Archaeologist who worked in coordination with Wisconsin’s Native Nations on the historic recovery of these two canoes, passed away unexpectedly in April while preparing for the upcoming maritime archaeology season. Highly regarded for his archaeological work in the Great Lakes region and beyond, his passion for uncovering, preserving, and sharing history was truly inspirational. Dr. Amy Rosebrough, the Interim State Archaeologist of Wisconsin, will be joining us on June 8th to talk about the dugout canoes and celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Skibo, the “People’s Archaeologist.”
“The discovery of these canoes offers an opportunity for all Wisconsinites to learn more about the Ho-Chunk Nation’s deep cultural history as the original caretakers of Teejop, as well as to learn more about the scientific process behind archaeological research,” says Lizzie Condon, Director of Science and Climate Programs for the Wisconsin Academy.
Attendance is free for both the in-person and remote experiences. Guests can register for this event at: https://www.wisconsinacademy.
About the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts & Letters
The Wisconsin Academy creates opportunities for people to connect, learn, and collaborate to improve Wisconsin life through a variety of experiences and events in the sciences, arts, and letters. The Wisconsin Academy showcases contemporary Wisconsin art at the James Watrous Gallery, examines science and culture in Wisconsin People & Ideas magazine, and explores pathways to a sustainable future through its Climate and Energy Initiative. Academy Courses and public talks provide opportunities to learn and explore, while making connections with curious and creative people across Wisconsin. The Academy recognizes excellence through the annual Fiction & Poetry Awards and Fellows Awards for leadership in and across disciplines. We also support the Wisconsin Poet Laureate and many other endeavors that help the Academy create a better world by connecting Wisconsin people and ideas.
