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First Peoples Exhibit Event

Basket Weaving and Nature Walk

The Escondido Creek Conservancy has dedicated itself to preserving land for our native wildlife but we also recognize the importance of preserving culture and language. In September, the Elfin Forest Interpretive Center transformed into a tribute to the First Peoples in our watershed, which highlighted some of the lifestyles and customs of indigenous peoples of the region — and also provided a glimpse into their modern ways of life. In honor of this exhibit, we hosted a basket weaving and nature walk event.

Donna Walker, one of the Conservancy’s longtime volunteers, started off the day with a nature walk. She led the group along the creek trail and introduced some of the historical uses of our native plants. After the walk, Adolfo Muniz from the San Diego Archaeological Center provided some insight into the materials chosen for the exhibit. And lastly, all of our visitors got a hands-on demonstration on some traditional basket weaving methods thanks to Diania Caudell. Everyone was able to make their own basket using the single-twine method.

In between speakers, guests explored the interactive exhibit’s archaeological findings, photos, illustrations, and audio of the rich and vibrant Luiseño and Kumeyaay cultures. We’d like to thank Donna Walker, Tim Roberts, and Victoria Grau for helping us create content for this exhibit. We also want to thank all the tribal representatives who contributed to this exhibit, including Mel Vernon, Diania Caudwell, Elie Keim, Deborah Small, Mark Farris, and Stan Rodriguez. Plus, a huge thank you to the San Diego Archaeological Center for loaning items from their collection.