You are standing in front of a reader rail titled “Window on the Past: An Area Rich in Resources.” To your left is a graphic panel titled “SERC’s Campus and the Surrounding Area: 1650s to 1776.” To your right is a graphic panel titled “New Arrivals.” Behind you is a large artifact case.

The reader rail in front of you includes text and one image.

The main text reads:

WINDOW ON THE PAST
An Area Rich in Resources
When the first Europeans arrived in this area, it was rich in natural resources. Early European accounts describe a bountiful environment filled with deer, beaver, fish, shellfish, fowl, wild fruits, and nuts. The rich soil was ideal for planting crops. The forests were filled with many species of trees that were excellent for building houses, barns, ships, wagons, and tools.

The secondary text reads:

Think About It . . .
As you explore SERC’s campus, notice the plants and animals you see. Think about how the environment has changed since the first Europeans arrived.

The text is accompanied by an illustration of Native American people fishing with spears and paddling in a canoe. The caption reads: Native Americans in the area depended on natural resources, including fish and shellfish, as depicted in this drawing by British artist and explorer John White, ca. 1585.