Engage with the Abbe Museum on a deeper level through our Touch Tables, carefully curated hands-on displays that dive into a variety of themes with visitors of all ages. Themes like: BIRCHBARK BASKETS!

There are two types of Wabanaki basketry, classified by the materials from which they are made: ash baskets and birchbark baskets. Both types of baskets include utility as well as fancy styles; the older and more traditional utilitarian baskets that are meant to carry loads and serve as storage containers, and the more recent and contemporary fancy baskets, which are typically smaller, more intricate, and decorative in nature. Generally, the division of utilitarian and fancy baskets within the birchbark style is less defined, as birchbark is inherently utilitarian yet most often artfully decorated. Basketmaking has played an important role in the preservation of tradition and creation of economic opportunities for Wabanaki people.

***Touch tables are available on select days throughout the season. Please check our website (abbemuseum.org) or call to confirm.