My artifact is El Pilon that my mother bought straight from the Dominican Republic. A medium-sized wooden Pilon (Mortar and pestle) with a hammer type object to grind things, used in Hispanic culture but specifically in Dominican history is used to make dishes like mangú and used to crush garlic to make different spices.  This artifact relates all the way back to the beginning of time and was mentioned in the Old Testament as a method of healing. The first evidence of it being used can be tracked all the way to 35,000 BC. The Egyptian Ebers (A medical document) contains the first few records of the mortar and pestle being used. Relating back to my Dominican heritage, El Pilon helps create famous dishes like mofongo, and gives the opportunity for Dominicans to eat this delicious food, celebrate their culture and have a way to bring the whole family together. 
 

– Fritz Desir

Relationship:  Grandchild of im/migrant Grandchild of im/migrant