A Mayo Bilobal gourd vine loves our Mesquite tree!

Join the Oro Valley Historical Society every 2nd Saturday for a visit to our Heritage Garden, a living classroom dedicated to preserving traditional Native American and heirloom crops and sharing the agricultural knowledge that has sustained this region for centuries. Visit a replica Hohokam pit house, learn about traditional lifeways, and connect with the history of our region.

Enjoy guided nature walks with naturalist Paul Canez at 9:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Walks begin at the Pusch House Museum and conclude in the garden, where participants can enjoy hands-on activities for all ages.

Projectile point made by Sam Greenleaf 2019

Special guests from Old Pueblo Archaeology Center will showcase traditional Native American crafts, answer your questions about archaeology and the region’s rich cultural history, and provide demonstrations on arrowhead-making and flintknapping and the construction of Hohokam clay pots. Flintknapper Sam Greenleaf will demonstrate the techniques and explain the strategies involved in creating flaked stone projectile points, spears, knives, and drills. Drawing on his expert knowledge, Sam also will discuss the different types of stone that can and cannot be used to create flaked stone tools. And join Sherry Eisler to make your own clay pot using the ancient coiling method! Sherry will share her knowledge of clay sources, paints, designs, and pottery distribution. She also will discuss Hohokam painted pottery sherds along with pottery and artifacts from other precontact and historic cultures.

Subscribe to Old Pueblo Archaeology’s semi-monthly email that provide information about upcoming southwestern archaeology, history, and cultures activities offered by Old Pueblo and other organizations.

get involved:  Meet us at 4pm in October & November for Wednesday WORKDAYS.  No need to sign up, just show up and help plant, harvest, and spread love in the garden!

Pit House Replica at Steam Pump Ranch in the Heritage Garden.

The Heritage Garden is operated and maintained by the Oro Valley Historical Society.  View our calendar of events for all activities hosted by OVHS.  Admission to all events is free, but donations are greatly appreciated and help us continue offering these educational programs and community events.