Students in Human Geography 7 at Havre de Grace Middle School had a rare opportunity this week to examine authentic artifacts from Cheyenne culture as part of a hands-on learning experience that brought history to life in the classroom.
From buffalo horn spoons and beaded moccasins to a full-size buffalo robe and a porcupine quill hairbrush, students were able to touch, examine, and investigate items that sparked discussion about daily life, tradition, identity, and how geography shapes the way people live.
The experience was led by guest expert Gary Scholl, an educator with more than 50 years of experience sharing Native American culture with learners of all ages. Scholl's specialization in Cheyenne beadwork developed through time he spent living and learning within the Cheyenne community in Hammon, Oklahoma. He continues that work through his leadership of the Morning Star Powwow, held each January at John Carroll School in Bel Air.
The event featured Scholl's personal collection and marks the beginning of a broader unit in which students will explore Indigenous cultures through a partnership with the Historical Society of Harford County.