Moths and Monarchs are two of the most exciting and symbolic animals on earth. They never cease to inspire awe and wonder at how they grow from eggs in chrysalis or cocoon to fascinating and beautiful winged adults. Many California Indians consider moths to be a symbol of transformation, healing and prayer. Moth cocoons were used as sacred rattles. In Mexico, early people believed that migrating butterflies carried the souls of ancestors visiting from the afterlife. Come celebrate the culture and folkways of the indigenous people and learn about two of the most fascinating insects on earth – moths and monarchs.
Activities
Ohlone Way of Life
Special guest, Keith Gutierrez of A Touch of the Earth, will engage all ages with demonstrations, games, and hands-on activities of the Ohlone Indians. Paint your face with rocks, learn a native game, be a youth first learning how to make fire, and more. Keith will lead a half hour exploration of Ohlone culture at 10:15 and 11:15.
Magnificent Monarchs
How can a population of small winged insects make their way hundreds or thousands of miles away each year in search of the lifegiving milkweed? October is the month these amazing travelers return to our area. Come learn about their life cycle through a series of demonstrations and hands-on activities led by monarch mama extraordinaire, Eleanor Laney.
Mysterious Moths
Moths seem mysterious and maybe even a little spooky because they live in the night. But their life cycles and habits are every bit as fascinating as a monarch’s. Guide Doug will lead you through a close up moth investigation!
Nature Crafts: Indigenous Folklife and Reverence for Monarchs and Moths
Did you know that all of Mexico’s indigenous people thought of monarchs as sacred in some way? And early cultures in California saw moths as the carriers of messages from the spirits of loved ones and ancestors. Make these stories come alive for yourself at our craft table. All ages will enjoy celebrating this month’s theme working with paper to make moths, monarchs, marigolds, and pumpkins.
Free Garden & House Tours
Our October guided tours will include a look at Gamble’s edible, pollinator, native and heritage gardens. Our historic house will be open for self guided tours of the first floor.
Second Saturdays are FREE and open to all.
October Second Saturday is made possible through the generous support of Lynn Wilson Roberts and Annie Roberts of the Wilson Roberts Team at Compass Real Estate.
REGISTRATION
Second Saturday is free and appropriate for all ages. Register for timed entry at 10 and 11 AM. Register in advance or at the door. We look forward to seeing you on Second Saturday!