Anthropology Students Test Their Skills at Throwing an Atlatl

Anthropology Professor Dr. Phil Wanyerka's Native Civilization of the Americas class stepped outdoors in the field behind the Science Research building to throw a very old weapon called an Atlatl.

This spear-thrower technology served as the primary stone-age weapon of choice from about 14,000 years BC to around AD 800 when the bow and arrow finally arrived to Northeast Ohio. Talk about engagement!

His class really enjoyed being outside for a hands-on practical lesson on stone-age weaponry, having the chance to throw the atlatl, and many students were naturals. Several students threw well over 50 yards and even our Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Andy Kersten, came out to try his hand at throwing the atlatl.

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