2016 Millersylvania Knap-in Report
November 5^th and 6^th
Hosts - Mick and Holly Hill

This year, 2016, at Millersylvania State Park, Mick and Holly Hill hosted their 20th annual knap-in gathering. They were, again, so grateful for the friendships and the log cabin setting that has worked so well sharing the art of flintknapping. T-shirts were made to mark the time.

This weekend has always been planned in the spirit of Thanksgiving, recognizing friendships and accomplishments by year end. While keeping the tradition, enjoying the arts, food and camaraderie, many friends were absent this time for a variety of reasons. We remembered you all, in our hearts, during this weekend, and expect to connect again in the New Year.

Mick was happy to provide a new and improved arrangement of overhead lighting. Knappers noticed and were appreciative. While the traditional turkey meal was heating on the woodstove in the kitchen side, knappers filled the other side of the cabin, knapping by the fireplace. Some played a round of two-inch goat. Woody Woodside was the winner.

What was most gratifying was seeing the experienced knappers share their talent with first-time guests. We had new interest from several Thurston and Lewis County residents. We look forward to our new friendships and encourage their attendance to more knap-ins.

We had children, aged 5 to 12, also participating. Those who were flintknapping hands-on included Cody, Austin, Raiden, Titan, Maximus, and Levi. We are so proud of them all and look forward to seeing them again.

We also had four people from out-of-state/country, who are now students attending the Wilderness Awareness School in Duvall, WA. They were serious about learning how to flintknap. We really enjoyed their involvement and enthusiasm, and we hope to connect again.

Photos Courtesy of Henry Payne