Julia Parker shares her thoughts on "Old Ways and New Ways" at the Mariposa Museum and History Center on Sunday, March 21 at 2 p.m.

Often referred to as "a national treasure" and a "living legend," Parker has been working for the National Park Service in Yosemite for over 40 years as a Native American Cultural Demonstrator.

The public is invited to hear Parker speak about tribal traditions from a background and familiarity that few can match, when it comes to native cultures of California.

She is known around the world for her experience and expertise in basketry, but she is also has a vast knowledge of the languages, history, tools, songs, games, foods and other traditions and practices of the Miwok, Paiute and Pomo peoples.

While many of the old ways have disappeared, Parker keeps native cultural traditions alive by passing along the knowledge and skills gained in the past 80 years.

She has been honored by universities, and has consulted with numerous museums to share her knowledge of Native American cultures. Dispite all of the recognition, she remains very down to earth, humble and thankful for her opportunities to teach and share her expertise.

Julia Parker was born in 1929 in Graton. Her people were of the Coast Miwok and Kashaya Pomo groups. By the time she was 12 years old, both of her parents had passed away. She and her brothers and sisters attended Bureau of Indian Affairs boarding schools, where children were separated from their traditional cultures.

After moving to Yosemite to live with her husband's village in 1949, she began learning everything she could about the "old ways." Her husband's grandmother, Mono Lake Paiute artist Lucy Telles, got her started in basketry. She learned from many others as well.

The spiritual significance of her basketry is revealed in her reverence for the materials she uses. She speaks of each twig, reed and vine as an appreciated gift from the earth, when she weaves traditional style baskets in much the same way her ancestors and others have done for generations.

This is another free program in the ongoing series of educational talks on historical subjects. Residents and guests are welcome. Mariposa Museum and History Center is located at 5119 Jessie Street. For more information call 966-2924.