Tag: Munsee

People who have visited Greece or Cyprus may remember that the Greek word for “thank you” is euxaristó, pronounced “efharistó”. This is actually a verb-form meaning “I thank [you]”, so if several people are expressing gratitude, you should say euxaristoume “we thank [you]”.

Those readers who go to church may recognise that the Greek word for “thank you” is the source of the English word Eucharist, which is often used as a synonym for the Christian service of Holy Communion, although its basic meaning is in fact “thanksgiving”.

This is not to be confused with the American Thanksgiving celebration, of course, which was celebrated last month. Since 1941 it has always been celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November – in Canada it occurs on the second Monday of October. Historically, it is not totally unrelated to the Eucharist because thanks are involved, but it is now a predominantly secular occasion which is celebrated by Americans of all ethnicities, and of all religions and none.

It began in the USA as a kind of autumn harvest festival, a day of giving thanks for that year’s produce. It is widely believed by Americans that their modern festival is a tradition descending from the 1621 harvest supper shared between the Pilgrim Fathers and the indigenous Algonquian-speaking Wampanoag people, who subsequently came close to extinction as a result of imported European diseases, and of being sold into slavery elsewhere in New England as well as in the Caribbean, by the English-speaking settlers.

The Wampanoag language is a dialect of Massachusett, a Southern New England Algonquian language, which tragically lost its last native speakers more than a century ago. These people do not have a great deal to be thankful for.

At Thanksgiving, Americans typically eat native produce – turkey, potatoes, cranberries and pumpkin…

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Title: The Rivalry Between the Iroquois Confederacy and the Algonquian Tribes

Introduction:
The history of Native American tribes in North America is rich and diverse, marked by intricate relationships and occasional conflicts. One such rivalry existed between the Iroquois Confederacy and the Algonquian tribes. This article aims to shed light on the Algonquian tribes’ opposition to the Iroquois, exploring the historical context, reasons behind the conflict, and its impact on both groups.

Understanding the Iroquois Confederacy and the Algonquian Tribes:
The Iroquois Confederacy, also known as the Haudenosaunee, was a powerful alliance of Native American tribes located in the northeastern part of North America. Comprising the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Seneca nations, and later joined by the Tuscarora, the Iroquois Confederacy formed a formidable force in the region.

On the other hand, the Algonquian tribes were a vast linguistic and cultural group that encompassed numerous tribes spread across the northeastern woodlands, the Great Lakes region, and parts of the Atlantic coast. Some prominent Algonquian tribes included the Lenape, Powhatan, Wampanoag, and Narragansett.

Reasons for Opposition:
1. Territorial Disputes: One of the primary reasons for the opposition between the Iroquois and the Algonquian tribes was territorial disputes. Both groups sought control over hunting grounds, fertile lands, and strategic locations, leading to frequent clashes.

2. Fur Trade Competition: The fur trade played a significant role in the European colonization of North America. Both the Iroquois and the Algonquian tribes were involved in this trade, which often led to competition and conflicts over access to European traders and their goods.

3. Cultural Differences: The Iroquois and the Algonquian tribes had distinct cultural practices, languages, and social structures. These differences sometimes fueled misunderstandings and conflicts, as each group sought to protect and preserve its unique way of life.

Impact of the Conflict:
The opposition between the Iroquois Confederacy and the…

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STATEN ISLAND, NY — In honor of Native American Heritage Month in November, the Conference House Association (CHA) introduced the Wisdom Walk, designed to honor and remember the indigenous people who once called Staten Island home.

The CHA introduced the park’s newest addition during the November 30th Anniversary Commemoration of the Wards Point Archeological National Historic Landmark, which sits within Conference House Park.

In honor of Native American Heritage Month in November, the Conference House Association (CHA) introduced the Wisdom Walk during the 30th Anniversary Commemoration of the Wards Point Archeological National Historic Landmark. (Courtesy of Conference House Association)Courtesy of the Conference House Association

Three themes can be observed in the landmark: land, sea and trees. The themes don’t solely represent the Lenape-Munsee, but represent Native American wisdom and sayings that have been recorded and survived through the years.

In attendance at the event were representatives of the Delaware Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma and the Stockbridge-Munsee Community Band of Mohicans of Massachusetts, two of the three federally recognized tribes with ancestral connections to Staten Island.

In honor of Native American Heritage Month in November, the Conference House Association (CHA) introduced the Wisdom Walk during the 30th Anniversary Commemoration of the Wards Point Archeological National Historic Landmark. (Courtesy of Conference House Association)Courtesy of the Conference House Association

The collaborative project was initiated by the CHA in collaboration with NYC Parks-Conference House Park and the Tottenville Historical Society, with funding from the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs.

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Title: Unveiling the Complex Intertribal Relations of the Iroquois Confederacy

Introduction:
The Iroquois Confederacy, also known as the Haudenosaunee, holds a prominent place in Native American history. Renowned for their political organization, cultural richness, and military prowess, the Iroquois Confederacy has often been associated with intertribal conflicts. In this article, we delve into the intricate dynamics of the Iroquois’ relationships with other tribes, shedding light on the complexities that shaped their interactions.

Understanding Intertribal Relations:
Intertribal relations among Native American tribes were multifaceted, influenced by factors such as territorial disputes, trade networks, cultural exchanges, and alliances. The Iroquois Confederacy, comprising the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Seneca nations, played a significant role in these intertribal dynamics.

1. The Iroquois Confederacy’s Confederation:
The Iroquois Confederacy was a unique political alliance formed by the five nations mentioned above. This confederation was established to promote peace, resolve conflicts, and provide a united front against external threats. The confederacy’s formation aimed to end the incessant intertribal warfare that had plagued the region for centuries.

2. Conflicts with Algonquian Tribes:
While the Iroquois Confederacy sought peace among its member nations, conflicts with neighboring Algonquian tribes were not uncommon. The Algonquian tribes, such as the Huron, Abenaki, and Ojibwe, often found themselves at odds with the expanding influence of the Iroquois. These conflicts were driven by territorial disputes, competition for resources, and differing political aspirations.

3. The Beaver Wars:
One of the most notable periods of intertribal conflict involving the Iroquois Confederacy was the Beaver Wars (c. 1609-1701). During this time, the Iroquois engaged in a series of military campaigns against various Algonquian tribes, primarily in the Great Lakes region. The wars were driven by the desire to control the lucrative fur trade and expand their territory.

4. Alliances and Diplomacy:
Intertribal relations were not solely defined by conflict. The Iroquois Confederacy…

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The Berkshire Museum’s repatriation of remains to the Stockbridge-Munsee tribe was part of a larger process that began in 1990 when a landmark federal law ordered America’s museums and universities to return Native American cultural objects.

When the Berkshire Museum gives two sets of human remains to the Stockbridge-Munsee Community Band of Mohican Indians, it will be a successful step forward for a process as difficult as it is morally necessary. It will not only be a clear-eyed accounting of a deep historical wound but an example of how, with respect and recognition, it is never too late to hope for healing and reconciliation.

The remains are set to be transferred from the custody of the Berkshire Museum to the Stockbridge-Munsee tribe, which plans to give them a dignified reburial. The remains were donated to the Berkshire Athenaeum in 1932. Years before that, in the late 19th century, they were recovered in a river washout in the late 19th century in the area of Springfield and Longmeadow. Like so many Native American remains once laid to rest in tribal burial locations, they were carelessly unearthed by the same forces of expanding American empire that pushed their peoples out, catalogued and stored as exhibits and artifacts without regard for the wishes or traditions of the deceased individuals or their tribes.

How would you feel if your family’s bones were raked from the earth and appropriated as the property of those whose ancestors dispossessed yours? Unfortunately, many Native Americans don’t have to imagine such a rending ordeal adding insult to the injury of displacement and destruction.

Fortunately, much has changed in the world of museum ethics…

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Jogwe, Hayakawa discuss past, present, future of Indigenous studies at the College – The Williams Record
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The Berkshire Museum is repatriating the remains of two Native ancestors to the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians.

In the 1990s, in response to a federal law, the Berkshire Museum classified the two cranial bone fragments as “culturally unidentifiable.” Under federal regulations, if Native remains are not classified as culturally affiliated, museums are not required to proactively reach out to tribes.

In addition to the human remains, the Museum has 13 objects that are believed to have been buried with the remains; 10 pottery shards and three stone tools.

The only documentation the museum has are tiny pieces of paper saying the remains, which were donated in the late 1800s, were dug up from river washout near an Indian burial ground in the Springfield – Longmeadow area.

A 1995 report from the University of Massachusetts concluded these remains belong to one adult and one adolescent.

Now, after consulting with representatives from the Stockbridge – Munsee band, the museum published a notice in the federal register stating the remains are affiliated with that tribe.

Jason Vivori, the museum’s collections manager, said under the lawmuseums determine which tribe the remains belong to, but he said the Berkshire Museum sees the repatriation process differently.

“If they [Native tribes] provide us with a good reason why, we’re not questioning it or challenging it. This is their culture and their ancestors,” Vivori said.

The tribe did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but Bonney Hartley, the Stockbridge-Munsee tribal historic preservation officer, told the Berkshire Eagle, “We are trying to step in and respectfully care for the ancestors and provide a dignified reburial for them, so they don’t remain on shelves at the museum and disturbed in their journey.”

The museum will hold the remains until the tribe is ready to take physical custody of them.

Revised federal regulations that…

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PITTSFIELD — The remains were found in the late 19th century. 

A tag indicated they were recovered at a river washout in “Springfield/Longmeadow,” and a forensic exam conducted by the University of Massachusetts in 1995 found they likely belonged to an adult and an adolescent.

The location suggests they could belong to any of a few different Native American tribes. They were donated to the Berkshire Athenaeum and went into the Berkshire Museum’s collection when the entities separated in 1932.

Now, nearly a century later, the museum has granted custody of the two sets of remains to the Stockbridge-Munsee Community Band of Mohican Indians.

“Because we have standing, and it is part of our history in that area and we have kinship ties,” said Bonney Hartley, who is the tribal historic preservation officer for the tribe. “We are trying to step in and respectfully care for the ancestors and provide a dignified reburial for them, so they don’t remain on shelves at the museum and disturbed in their journey.”

Artifacts, all of which have been repatriated to the Stockbridge-Munsee Community Band of Mohicans, are on display as part of a public exhibit at the Mission House in Stockbridge. 

EAGLE FILE PHOTO

The repatriation was part of a larger process that began in 1990 when a landmark federal law, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, ordered America’s museums and universities to return Native American cultural objects, including the remains of ancestors removed from their burial locations.

The long, slow process continues today, with the cataloging of thousands of items to find their rightful home, happening largely out of the spotlight.

“It’s more pervasive than most people are aware of, and not publicized because of the sensitives involved,” said Hartley, who works from the Stockbridge-Munsee office in Williamstown. “We…

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Exploring the Granite State: A Glimpse into New Hampshire’s Rich History

Nestled in the heart of New England, New Hampshire boasts a history as rugged and enduring as its famed granite formations. From its early indigenous inhabitants to its pivotal role in America’s fight for independence, the state’s past is a tapestry of struggle, innovation, and progress.

Indigenous Roots and Colonial Encounters

Long before European settlers set foot on its soil, New Hampshire was home to various Algonquian-speaking tribes, including the Pennacook and Abenaki. The region’s abundant resources fostered a rich native culture steeped in the rhythms of nature.

The 17th century marked the arrival of English explorers, with the first permanent settlement established at present-day Portsmouth in 1623. Named after the English county of Hampshire, the fledgling colony soon became a hotbed of fishing, timber, and trade.

Revolution and Statehood

The spark of revolution ignited in New Hampshire, with its residents among the first to push back against British rule. The state’s decisive ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1788 underscored its commitment to the new nation, becoming the ninth state to join the Union.

Industrialization and Beyond

The 19th century saw New Hampshire transition from agrarian roots to industrial might, with mills and factories harnessing the power of its rivers. This era of growth laid the groundwork for the diverse economy and vibrant culture that characterize the state today.

FAQ:

Q: When did New Hampshire become a state?
A: New Hampshire became the ninth state to join the Union on June 21, 1788.

Q: What are some key historical figures from New Hampshire?
A: Notable figures include Daniel Webster, a prominent statesman and orator, and Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States.

Definitions:

– Algonquian-speaking tribes: A group of Native American peoples speaking related languages and living in the northeastern region of North America.
– Ratification: The formal approval…

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Exploring the Mysterious Lore of Minnesota: Local Myths and Urban Legends

Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes, is not only rich in natural beauty but also in folklore. From eerie ghost stories to strange creatures lurking in the woods, the state has its fair share of myths and urban legends that continue to fascinate and chill the spines of locals and visitors alike.

The Legend of the Wendigo
One of the most chilling tales is that of the Wendigo, a malevolent creature stemming from the beliefs of the Algonquian-speaking peoples. This mythical monster, associated with cannibalism and insatiable greed, is said to roam the forests of the northern part of the state, preying on the unwary.

The Haunting of Grey Cloud Island
Grey Cloud Island, located in the Mississippi River near Cottage Grove, is another hotspot for supernatural lore. With a history of Native American burial grounds and rumored hangings, the island is said to be haunted by various spirits. Witnesses have reported ghostly apparitions and unexplained noises, making it a favorite destination for paranormal enthusiasts.

The Mystery of the Kensington Runestone
On a historical note, the Kensington Runestone has been a source of intrigue since its discovery in 1898. This stone slab, allegedly inscribed by Norse explorers in the 14th century, suggests that Vikings may have traveled further into North America than previously thought. However, its authenticity remains hotly debated among scholars.

FAQ:
Q: What is an urban legend?
A: An urban legend is a modern genre of folklore comprising fictional stories rooted in local popular culture, often with a twist of horror or mystery.

Q: Are these myths and legends based on real events?
A: While some urban legends may be inspired by real events or historical accounts, they are generally considered to be fictional or embellished stories passed down through generations.

Q: Can visitors…

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