Traditionally, Native people have used beading as a way of storytelling and linking the story to a place. During a class at Damariscotta River Association (DRA), Abenaki basket-weaver and educator Judy Dow will discuss the connections of beading as a tradition to storytelling and language while guiding participants through some traditional methods of beading on leather.

The class will be offered on Monday, Oct.15, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at DRA’s Great Salt Bay Farm in Damariscotta. Participants may make jewelry, a pouch, key chain decorations or other items to take home.

This class is appropriate for ages 15 and up. The fee is $25, or $20 for DRA members. Registration may be done online at damariscottariver.org/events.

Dow works with DRA at different times of the year to teach special programs. A renowned basket weaver and a life-long, award winning educator from Winooski, Vermont, Dow specializes in sharing indigenous knowledge with children. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Native organization Oyate and for the Native American Scouting Association. To learn more about Dow and her basket making, visit dawnlandvoices.org.

A non-profit, membership supported, and nationally accredited land trust and conservation organization, Damariscotta River Association is dedicated to preserving and promoting the natural, cultural, and historical heritage of the Damariscotta region, centered on the Damariscotta River. 

DRA has active programs in the areas of land conservation, stewardship, community education, water quality monitoring, marine conservation and cultural preservation. 

Visitors are welcome at the Great Salt Bay Heritage Center in Damariscotta as well as the many other DRA properties throughout the region. For more information call 563-1393, email dra@damariscottariver.org, or visit the DRA website listed above.