Theresa and David have been teaching this ancient skill for over 10 years. Because of its special qualities, black ash is the tree of choice for the Haudenosaunee people for producing splint basketry. Black ash growth rings are separated by pounding with the back of an axe; the splints produced are flexible when moistened and become very strong once woven into a basket and dried. Mohawks produce baskets both for utilitarian purposes and as art. Many people are familiar with the pack baskets crafted with sturdy, tightly woven black ash splints that are used by hunters and trappers. Collectors prize the “sweet grass” basket that makes use of finer, more delicate splints interwoven with braids of an aromatic grass.