Santa Fe Standard

The upcoming Fiber Fair at Bosque Redondo Memorial at Fort Sumner Historic Site is set to offer visitors a unique and educational experience on Saturday, May 4, 2024. The event will showcase the rich history of New Mexico through various wool-related activities and demonstrations.

Aaron Roth, the Bosque Redondo Memorial Site Manager, expressed his excitement for the event, stating, "Let this event be a celebration and appreciation of the centuries-old weaving traditions that have flourished in the beautiful state of New Mexico.”

Attendees of all ages will have the opportunity to engage in live demonstrations and hands-on wool working activities using wool from the site’s flock of Navajo Churro Sheep. These sheep hold significant historical importance as they were essential to the survival of Diné captives during their internment at Bosque Redondo Indian Reservation in the 1860s.

Activities during the day will include various wool-working stations such as shearing, washing, carding, spinning, dyeing, weaving, knitting, felting, and crocheting. Professional demonstrators will be on hand to showcase the unique qualities of Navajo Churro Sheep wool, known for its softness and beautiful natural colors.

Admission to the event is $7 for adults, while children 16 years and younger can enter for free. Attendees will also have access to the Memorial exhibition, wool-working stations, demonstrations, and will receive a gift bag with wool samples. Additionally, food trucks and a mobile museum exhibit will be available on-site for visitors to enjoy.

The Fiber Fair aims to celebrate and preserve the weaving traditions that have thrived in New Mexico for centuries, encouraging attendees to appreciate the creativity and purpose behind each fiber. The event serves as a reminder of the resilience and cultural significance of the Navajo Churro Sheep breed.

For those interested in attending the Bosque Redondo Memorial Fiber Fair, more information can be found at nmhistoricsites.org/bosque-redondo.

The Bosque Redondo Memorial at Fort Sumner Historic Site stands as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by Native Americans in the past, offering visitors a glimpse into the history and tragedy of the region.