In the modern W African state of Mali cultures such as the Bozo, Dogon and Bamako living along the Niger River have traditionally recognized dynamic (ie shifting) territorial borders. In particular, land use by farmers, fishermen, herders and hunter-gatherers was related to indigenous ideas of where tribal boundaries (including shared resources) were located, as well as to weather patterns and changing climate. Religion, ethnicity and language also played a central role in how people associated and understood their use of, and access to, land and water. Not least, magic was an influential sense-making system for Africans, and trade on the Niger’s watery highway was intense and far-reaching. But the imposition of static international boundaries by colonial powers like Britain and France in the 19th century resulted in a conflict between modern and traditional views of the possession, use and administration of land and water. Since much of what Africans thought about these matters was passed down the generations by oral culture, there is no reliable written record of what they thought or what it meant to them in locations like the Inland Delta of the Niger River. In this camp we excavate a site at the southern end of the Bandiagara escarpment in SW Mali where spectacular material evidence of what may be termed an African point of view has been found. Campers will be required to employ an array of challenging sense making systems to understand what was really going on at this site (near Djenne in modern Mali) with reference to Western concepts used in history, culture, geography and (of course!) archaeology. Will they be able to figure it out? A good time learning will be had by all since this fascinating topic (not to mention its evidence!) is not often presented in Western countries and yet its appeal will be obvious to all. On Friday the 5th a potluck feast on a West African theme will take place at noon alongside an exhibit of the campers’ unique and thought-provoking finds. Families should plan to collect their children from the camp by no later than 2pm that day.
General Information
- Camp will be held of Thursday, July 4th
- Campers should arrive dressed for the weather, with appropriate footwear and a cap or hat.
- Sunblock and kid-friendly bug dope may also be needed.
- All campers should pack a hearty lunch, labeled drink and a snack.
- Space is limited; please sign up early if you wish to have your children attend.
- Head Instructor: Geoffrey Purcell
- CAMP ENDS AT 2PM ON FRIDAY
- Camp will be held at the Western Turnpike Golf Course Pavilion - turn into the golf course entrance at 2350 Western Ave and follow the entrance road. The pavilion is located just before the road curves to the right - there will be signs!