Kids can learn about archaeology at Hands-on History program

Join the Des Plaines History Center for its first children's program in over a year as they unearth mock archaeology remains.

Des Plaines History Center is kicking off the return of its monthly children's programs, known as Hands-on History, with a day of "Digging up History" this September. All children ages 5-12 and their families are invited to attend at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 5.

The afternoon will feature lessons about how archaeologists dig up artifacts and learn how objects can tell us about the past.

The History Center's Interpretive Curator Emma Marston will demonstrate archaeological techniques and discuss learning about history through this dig. Activities will include a mock archaeological dig, reconstructing artifacts, and more.

Masks are required for all History Center, regardless of vaccinator status for this in-person program.

"Artifacts are one of the best ways to learn about history, because they can tell us so much about when they were made and what they were used for," says Marston.

"Even the smallest objects, like shards of pottery or buttons, can tell us so much about the people they once belonged to.

This program is free due to the generosity of the Kiwanis Club of Des Plaines.

The Des Plaines History Center is at 781 Pearson St., Des Plaines.

Hands on History is a monthly children's program meant to invite public participation and discussion on a broad range of historical topics. The next children's activity will be "Old-Fashioned Toys and Games" at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 6, and Saturday, Oct. 10.