Third Grade Boys Explore Teatown Lake Reservation

On October 24, the third grade boys headed to Teatown Lake Reservation, a nature preserve and education center in Ossining, N.Y. Teacher Susan Kehoe reports:

The boys were immersed in the culture of the Eastern Woodland Natives. Specifically, they learned about their history at the period of contact with Europe. The boys enjoyed the opportunity to view what daily life in a Native American village might have been like. They visited a replica of a wigwam, allowing them to feel like they really stepped back in time. Replicas of items such as deer skin leggings, moccasins and native tools were shown and explored. The boys were allowed to touch and interact with each one. Traditional games were played, so each boy had the chance to practice his hunting skills! It was a great learning experience and one which complimented our studies quite nicely!

According to the reservation's website, "the name Teatown dates back to 1776 when tea was scarce due to British taxation. A man by the name of John Arthur moved to the northern Westchester area hoarding a chest full of tea with thoughts of selling it at a huge profit. A group of women called found out about the tea and demanded Mr. Arthur sell the tea at a reasonable fee. After refusing, the women laid siege to the farmhouse. Mr. Arthur finally agreed to sell the tea at a fair price in exchange for a peaceful withdrawal. Hence, the area became known as 'teatown.' "