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Atlati competition set for Meadowcroft

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Mike Jones / Observer-Reporter

Frank Takoch shows Ryan Brownfield how to throw a dart using an atlatl in this file photo.

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Mike Jones / Observer-Reporter

In this file photo, Gary Nolf, president of the World Atlatl Association, shows off his collection of handmade atlatls at Meadowcroft.

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Observer-Reporter

Frank Takoch explains how to use an atlatl to Todd Brownfield of Waynesburg in this file photo.

Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, part of the Smithsonian-affiliated Senator John Heinz History Center’s family of museums, will host the 25th annual Atlatl Competition on June 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Prehistoric hunters used the atlatl, a precursor to the bow and arrow, while hunting deer, elk, and other large animals. Carved from wood, antler, or bone, the atlatl increased a spear’s force and velocity.

Presented annually in partnership with the World Atlatl Association, the competition will feature some of the world’s most talented atlatlists aiming for the top prize.

Throughout the day, visitors of all ages and skill levels can try their hand at using an atlatl and compete in the event.

This year’s event will feature a special appearance by members of the Shawnee tribe, who will discuss prehistoric hunting techniques and demonstrate tool production in Meadowcroft’s Monongahela Indian Village.

Visitors can also watch a blacksmith forge red-hot iron at the 19th-century Historic Village or visit the Rockshelter, the oldest site of human habitation in North America that features a massive rock overhang used by the region’s earliest inhabitants for shelter 19,000 years ago.

Meadowcroft’s frontier area will be closed due to the atlatl event.

Admission is $15 for adults, $14 for senior citizens, and $7 for students and children ages 6-17. Children 5 and under and History Center members get in free.

Visit heinzhistorycenter.org/meadowcroft or call 724-587-3412 for more information.

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