Tohono O’odham Basketmakers to Weave at Montezuma Castle

Date: May 11, 2013
Contact: Karen Hughes, 928-567-3322 X223

National Park Service News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - MAY 11, 2013
KAREN HUGHES, ACTING CHIEF RANGER, MOCA/TUZI, 928-567-3322 X223

Tohono O'odham Basketmakers to Weave at Montezuma Castle

CAMP VERDE, Ariz. - On Saturday, May 18, Tohono O'odham weavers Fred and Della Cruz will be demonstrating traditional basket making at Montezuma Castle National Monument from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Mr. and Mrs. Cruz are a husband and wife team from Bobcat Mountain Village near Sells, Arizona. They are known for crafting beautiful Native American baskets and lively human and animal figures. Visitors will be able to watch them weave, while learning about plants, materials, tools, designs, techniques, and customs associated with this unique art form. Children will be able to participate in making their own traditional talking sticks.

There is no additional charge for the special program. The fee for Montezuma Castle National Monument is $5 per adult 16 years of age or older; children 15 and younger visit for free. All federal recreation passes are accepted, including Senior, Annual, Military, and Access passes. An exceptional array of baskets from Mr. and Mrs. Cruz and other artists will be available for purchase through Western National Parks Association, a non-profit partner promoting education and interpretation in national park units throughout the West.

Montezuma Castle, open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., is located off Interstate 17, exit 289, 2800 N. Montezuma Castle Highway. The trail is a third of a mile, paved flat loop that is accessible. For additional information, call 928-567-3322, extension zero.

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