Press Release
Fla. Museum archaeologist explores role of myths in history during Oct. 28 program
For Immediate Release Oct. 15, 2007
Contact:
Paul Ramey, APR
Assistant Director, Marketing and Public Relations
Florida Museum of Natural History
(352) 846-2000, ext. 218, pramey@flmnh.ufl.edu
PHOTOS AVAILABLE
GAINESVILLE, Fla. --- Discover the true story of Columbus through his own words, native oral history and modern scholarship during the Florida Museum of Natural History's "Science Sundays" lecture series, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Oct. 28.
Florida Museum Caribbean Archaeology Curator William Keegan will discuss how myths and beliefs of the storyteller bias our history. A book signing will follow.
Keegan is the author of the recently released book "Taíno Indian Myth and Practice: the Arrival of the Stranger King." He began investigating Caribbean prehistory nearly 30 years ago and infuses his accumulated knowledge about the Taíno, an indigenous pre-Columbian people, with archaeological theory to explain how myths and beliefs not only affect cultures, but also may be used thousands of years later by archaeologists interpreting culture.
Upcoming "Science Sundays" lecturers include "Into the Wilds" Nov. 11, a discussion of nature photography, and "A Natural Perspective" Dec. 2, focusing on the history of Florida's forests. Both programs begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information call (352) 846-2000, ext. 246 or visit www.flmnh.ufl.edu/education/science_sundays.htm.
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The Florida Museum of Natural History is Florida's state natural history museum, dedicated to understanding, preserving and interpreting biological diversity and cultural heritage. It is located near the intersection of Southwest 34th Street and Hull Road in the University of Florida Cultural Plaza in Gainesville. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Butterfly Rainforest admission is $8.50 for adults ($7.50 Fla. residents) and $4.50 for children ages 3-12. Prices subject to change. For more information, including directions and parking, call (352) 846-2000, or visit www.flmnh.ufl.edu.