Find more Asheville Museum of History Events
Description
The Asheville Museum of History (AMoH) is excited to announce a community partner Hike with a Historian program with Exploring Joara Foundation (EJF) at the Berry Site, an active archeological site dating back to the 16th century near present-day Morganton, NC.
Details:
Participants will walk across the field where the earliest inland European settlement was established in 1567 by the Spanish Conquistador, Juan Pardo. The discussion will include the story of Pardo's expedition, the locations of the Spanish fort and settlement (Cuenca), and the Native mound and some Native houses. We will discuss the ongoing archaeological excavation at this site and share photos of some of the artifacts found over the last 20 years. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the Native game of Chunkey.
When: Thursday, May 7th
Time: 11 AM – 12 PM
Meet: 10:40 AM at the Wall Center for Archaeological Research, home to the Exploring Joara Foundation office, dorm, and lab (220 Wall Street, Morganton, NC 28655). We will then drive as a convoy to the nearby Berry Site.
Hike Length/Difficulty: Approximately 1/2 mile of walking (easy-moderate difficulty)
What to Bring: Water and snacks; closed-toed, sturdy shoes and comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing; and bug spray and any needed medications.
Rain Date: In the event of inclement weather, participants will be notified in advance if the event is to be rescheduled. The alternate rain date will be rescheduled promptly.
Tickets:
$25 for AMoH Members
$35 General Admission.
We also have no-cost, community-funded tickets available for each event. We want our events to be accessible to as many people as possible. If you are able, please consider making a donation along with your ticket purchase. These donations are placed in our Community Fund, which allows us to offer tickets at no cost to those who would otherwise be unable to attend.
Emergency Contact Form: All registrants must fill out the waiver and emergency contact form in advance. Registrants will receive a waiver and emergency contact form soon after registering for the program.
Hike Leader/s:
This outing is led by Mike Carpenter, executive director of EJF, and by Steven Nickollof, AMoH director of education and programs. He has an MA in American history and is interested in both Appalachian and environmental history. He is also Wilderness First Aid/CPR certified.
For questions, please contact Steven Nickollof at education@ashevillehistory.org
Date & Time
Thu, May 7, 2026 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Venue Details
Exploring Joara Foundation | Berry Site
Morganton, North Carolina