Time for a Pow Wow

"Pow wow"
1: an American Indian medicine man 2 a: an American Indian ceremony (as for victory in war) b: an American Indian social gathering or fair usually including competitive dancing 3 a: a social get-together b: a meeting for discussion
(source: www.Merriam-Webster.com)

Susquehanna, Macanaqua, Nesquehoning, Nescopeck, Wapwallopen --
all local Native American Indian names I grew up hearing and speaking. My mother spent her youth in Shickshinny, up the road from my hometown (Bloomsburg). My ninth grade civics class spent sessions digging for artifacts in a field next to the school -- grounds of an old fort -- hoping to unearth that prized arrowhead.

As with many things in life, new interests develop with age. I acquired appreciation for parts Native American culture, namely artwork. I've used the colors, swirls and characterizations of the sun and animals in my amateur painting on wood items.

My first genuine pow wow was about five years ago in Tipton, Pa. Loved it. I have gone to a local pow wow several times, most recently last weekend. Since then, I've learned that I have a few Native ancestors of both sides of my family.

I share some of my pre-digital photos of the event (at the link below), the highlight of which was the dancing. Each type of dance has a different purpose and often a historical meaning based on when it would be performed by members of a tribe. Often the final dance is a group where all registered participants and family members parade in a circular path. What an eye-pleasing ceremony.

My photos: click here
If this intrigues you, the fifth annual New Faces of An Ancient People pow wow will be inn State College, Pa.