Blackwater Draw Field Trip

Looking up at the gray sky, I hoped that the looming clouds would not burst, drenching us with rain. Today was our Home School Group Field Trip to the Blackwater Draw Museum and Site. The boys were excited to see mammoth bones and I was happy to tour a museum. How could I forget that two young boys (almost 4 and 2) and a 4 month old baby strapped on the front of me would make the day interesting no matter what? We drove to Portales, NM, passed the yummy Sunland Peanut Factory and almost missed the tiny Blackwater Museum that was set back in a dry yellow covered grass rest area.
The displays in the museum were simple, yet we all still learned a lot of information about the Clovis Man time period from our knowledgeable guides. It helped that the young kids that made up the group did not faze them. I would not suggest children younger than 6 or 7 to tour this museum, for there are too many fun things to pull, twirl around, and huge glass windows to bang on.
After watching an entertaining dino movie, we picnicked in the cold breeze, then headed out to the actual site which is about 11 miles from the museum.
The clouds still gray mocked our fun. The wind whipped the hoods on our jackets, but we were determined to see the site (the site is not usually open during the winter). We looked at huge mammoth teeth and other bones, then set out on the dusty red trail that wound along the draw. It was a lot of exercise, but exactly what the boys and other kids needed. Though, there were a few drop offs that made all us moms squirm and block the tempting overhangs.
We then proceeded to tour a flimsy looking building, where the archaeologists were actually still digging. It was neat, that the draw was still a live site, where artifacts were being discovered. Once again, this dwelling was not kid friendly and kids younger than 7 or 8 should not enter.

Over all, this was a fun trip, but would be more enjoyable in the Spring or Fall with older children.

Written By: Megan
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