Explore shell tool technology at North Port Library
SARASOTA COUNTY – It’s not uncommon to find shells on Sarasota County beaches, but did you ever wonder what they can tell us about the past?
That’s the topic of an upcoming program hosted by the Florida Public Archaeology Network, in collaboration with Ryan Murphy, staff archaeologist with Sarasota County Historical Resources. “Shell Tool Technologies of the West Coast” will be held 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 20, at the North Port Public Library, 13800 S. Tamiami Trail, North Port. 
Attendees will learn how to identify different shell types found in Florida, the ways Native Americans used them, and how archaeologists use shells to learn about the past. The program is intended for all adults and kids ages 10 and older.
“Archaeologists study ancient shells to not only learn about the diets and tools of prehistoric Floridians, but also the environments they lived in,” Murphy explained. “This program will bring that history to life.”
The program will include a hands-on “show and tell” portion that will place a variety of tool types within the hands of attendees, who are encouraged to ask questions.
To pre-register or for more information, call 941-861-1307 or 941-861-5000 or go to www.scgov.net/library.
