ADAMS, Mass. — Adams Free Library is hosting "Native American Artifacts and Birds of Prey" by Wingmasters on Wednesday, July 17 at 11:00 a.m. 

 

Families and children ages eight and up are invited to attend this free event. Registration is required (413)743-8345.

 

According to a press release:

 

Native Americans revered birds of prey for their majestic appearance as well as for their hunting prowess. To invoke the spirit of these powerful predators, Native peoples followed the ancient tradition of wearing or carrying bird of prey feathers. They also admired the subtle beauty of raptor feathers, from the black-and-white tail feathers of juvenile golden eagles to the wing feathers of hawks and falcons, patterned with arrowhead-shaped markings.

 

The strong connection between raptors and Native Americans is suggested in this program. It combines five live birds of prey with authentic artifacts, many of museum quality. It both explains and shows how different Native American cultures (displayed at this program) range from shields and headdresses to clothing and jewelry.

 

Wingmasters is a partnership of two people dedicated to increasing understanding and appreciation of North American birds of prey. They are licensed wildlife rehabilitators with further licensure to provide a home for nonreleasable raptors and to use them for educational programs. Since 1994, Wingmasters has presented over 10,000 programs at schools, libraries, and museums throughout New England.

 

"Read, Renew, Repeat" is sponsored by The Adams Free Library, the Massachusetts Library System, the Boston Bruins, and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.

 

This program is supported in part by a grant from the Cultural Council of Northern Berkshire, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. Additional funding is provided by the Friends of the Adams Free Library.

 

Families with children aged 8 and up are invited register to join the Adams Free Library on Wednesday, July 17 at 11:00 a.m. with Wingmasters. Registration is required (413)743-8345. An adult must accompany children under 8 years of age. Library events are free and open to the public. Attendance at library programs constitutes consent to be photographed; photos may be used in print or electronic publicity for the Adams Free Library.