Living History Day at the Yellowstone Gateway Museum is Saturday, June 4, from 10 AM to 4 PM. Throughout the day, artisans demonstrate primitive arts: flint knapping, blacksmithing, cordage making, and more on the museum grounds. Native American traditional games are offered at various stations on the lawn and a local sheep rancher is bringing a lamb to the museum. All are welcome to attend this free event, which includes museum admission. Burgers and hot dog plates are available for purchase.

Participants thus far include: Jem Blueher, Andy Olds, and Martin Hildreth who demonstrate and interpret the traditional art of blacksmithing using the original Vink Blacksmith Shop forge and portable forges. Peter “Jack” Vink, Jr. used the shop for refitting wagon wheels, welding, and blacksmithing from 1903 until his death in 1949.

George Bumann and George Bryce demonstrate the art of flint knapping. Bumann and Fred Engle also show event attendees primitive fire-starting techniques using a bow drill. Jack Reynolds will make miniature willow sculptures and cordage. Lorna Marchington is bringing a lamb to the museum and interpreting the role of sheep ranching in Park County.

Traditional Native American game instruction is led by Trudy Patton, a Yellowstone National Park Education Ranger with the curriculum-based, residential Expedition Yellowstone program, STEAM teacher workshops, and school field trip programs. Patton was certified in International Traditional Games Society Level 1 training at Mammoth, Wyoming in 2018.

Visitors can view a new exhibit, A History of Service: Park County Vietnam Veterans, and enjoy numerous family activities in the museum. Donations to support the event are welcome and appreciated.

For more information, please contact Mark Brammer, Yellowstone Gateway Museum, 222-4184. Visit our website, www.yellowstonegatewaymuseum.org, or find us on Facebook or Instagram where we’ll post event updates.