Today our homeschooling group went to the Powhatan Indian Pauwau. I find it so interesting to learn about totally foreign cultures. And this culture is right in our own backyard. Today’s Pauwau was to honor Chief Powhatan, who was the supreme ruler of most of the indigenous tribes in the Chesapeake Bay area from north of the Mattaponi River here in Virginia.
The Pauwau is a way to share the culture of their Native Ancestors as well as bring an appreciation and realization to the citizens of Powhatan County of the sacrifice made by Powhatan’s People. The word “pow-wow” comes from the Algonquin word “pau wau” - A gathering in celebration to renew friendships, to exchange knowledge, and to trade skills.
Powhatan County is only about 40 minutes away from our house. Members from various Indian tribes came from all over to show us some Indian traditions, like brain tanning. GB didn’t really get into that demonstration, but he liked looking at the weapons and leather products. I was facsinated with the jewelry. Oh, it was so pretty. I got one little bracelet, but that’s it.
I’ve seen teepees before, but this one, with it’s gorgeous paintings, was the prettiest one I’ve ever seen.
This was the brain tanning demonstration.
This friendly fellow thought we should take a picture……… so we obliged…… what a hardship…….LOL!
This is the Red Crooked Sky Dance Troupe. I was enchanted, but GB spent most of the time chatting with a friend. They also did some storytelling which I also enjoyed; probably more than GB. Oh well, I guess he’ll appreciate this more as he gets older.
This is GB’s cool, Indian-made bow and arrow souvenir. It’ll fly 75 feet…….. and it’s easy to lose the arrow…… trust me.
by Mama, on October 11 2008 @ 3:43 pm
Looks like a great day!
by Dana, on October 12 2008 @ 8:37 pm
How neat that you live so close to America’s history! Well, I guess we live close to native American history, too. In fact, we’ve been to a few pow wows where you can dance with them. My daughter especially loves seeing the native Americans and their “old” way of life… because she is proud of her own heritage!