Posted By: The Reporter August 26, 2022

Nickel Plate Arts is proud to partner with Hamilton County Tourism for the 200th anniversary of the Great Squirrel Stampede. Throughout the month of September, Nickel Plate Arts will host a series of events with exciting art opportunities.

In 1822, an abundance of squirrels invaded the region during their migration south, trampling crops and causing mass environmental destruction. At the time, this was devastating to central Indiana, but the story has become a part of folklore from Hamilton County’s past.

Many local organizations are getting involved in this year’s event. Kiln Creations, located at 60 N. 9th St., Noblesville, has unleashed 300 Clay Mold Squirrels, along with paint, all over Hamilton County.

“Kiln Creations is overjoyed to be the purveyor of fine ceramic squirrels here in Hamilton County,” said Louise Blazucki with Kiln Creations. “Here’s to hoping these sweet ceramic stand ins act as a talisman and protect your crop and home from being overrun by their furry counterparts!”

If you’re interested in getting involved or receiving a free ceramic squirrel, Nickel Plate Arts invites the community to come to the Nickel Plate Arts campus and pick one up (limit one per family.) The Clay Squirrels will need a good home, and to pick one up you are asked to do the following:

Nickel Plate Arts is also looking for any local writers, poets, painters, photographers, sculptors, or designers of squirrels in the community. If so, bring your art and artisan work to Nickel Plate Arts at the beginning of September and they will look for places to present it.

You must register your work by Aug. 31 at this submission link. Art work can be dropped off from noon to 5 p.m. on Sept. 1, 2, 7, 8 and 9.

This squirrel “celebration” also includes an arts initiative sponsored by Hamilton County Tourism. Event partners include the City of Fishers, City of Westfield, Primeval Brewing in Noblesville, Nickel Plate Arts, and the Carmel Clay Historical Society.

Sept. 10 at Nickel Plate Arts

Sept. 30 at Primeval Brewing (960 Logan St., Noblesville)

Learn more about the Great Squirrel Stampede, community events and local businesses participating throughout the month of September at VisitHamiltonCounty.com/squirrel.

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