2007 President Todd Walterspaugh message

Let my start by saying I am honored to be the newly elected President of the Wolverine Archaeological Society! Many of you know me from the Central States shows I attend through out the Midwest, for those of you who don't I will share a little of my collecting experience and involvement with you now.

My love of the Native American Culture started as a little boy. I remember being an Indian Guides member and making beaded items and sharing the old lore of the Native Americans with my friends and Father. My Grandparents were also very intrigued by the Native Americans and would frequently take me to Pow Wow's in Michigan. My Grandfather and I had a favorite fishing spot near the Potowatomi Indian Reservation in Athens, Michigan south of Battle Creek. He would tell stories of how his Native American friends would spear fish for Carp and Sucker in the River that runs through the little town. When my Grandfather passed away I was given a few of his belonging's which included a large Adena point. That was like traveling back in time as I remembered the day he had found that point while we were walking back from a day of Deer hunting. From that day on I have been intrigued and adding to my collection of Native American Artifacts.

My wife "Jeni" and I are proud parents to five children. Our kids all enjoy collecting Indian Relics and going to the shows. I was happy to share my collection with my oldest Daughters classmates several years ago and was surprised to see how very interested the kids were about the Artifacts. The questions were non stop! I really want to get the younger generation involved in our Society as I know first hand they really enjoy it.

I will be sponsoring a show in Battle Creek this coming October 27, 2007. This will be a Saturday show held at the American Legion on 20th Street. My entire family will be involved in this "child" friendly event. Kids can hunt for arrowheads in the sand box's we will have at the show or make a beaded necklace to show off to their friends. Battle Creek is surrounded by some beautiful campgrounds, bring the whole family and spend the weekend with us!

As your President I have set a personal goal for myself to add 20 new members to the Society over the next 2 years. We are struggling with this folk's, if any of our current members could add even 1 new member a year, it would be a great help! We are currently down for only three shows this year. Please support these shows by displaying your collection - we would all love to see NEW faces at the shows. Bring your kids, grandkids, friends and neighbor's. If we all work together and put a little effort into this I'm sure the Society will move forward in a positive direction. Please feel free to contact me with suggestions you may have for the shows

Sincerely, Todd Walterspaugh
269-665-4967