July 26th, 2013
Nanticoke Indian Museum, Delaware’s Nanticoke Indian Tribe, National Historic Landmark, Annual Powwow, September 7-8, 2013, Discover Southern Delaware
In memory of NAU-GWA-OK-WA (Lydia E. Clark), who died in 1859. She was the last of the Nanticoke Indians in Delaware and Eastern Maryland to speak the Nanticoke language. The memorial was erected by The National Society of Colonial Dames in Delaware in 1927. It was tucked away on a corner road in Oak Orchard; just by itself and it did attract my attention.
A visit to the Nanticoke Indian Museum a few days later was another “serendipity”…not looking for it but finding fortunate discoveries by accident.
The Nanticoke Indian Museum is located within the Nanticoke Indian community. It is not far, at all, from the beaches. It is on Rt. 24 on 27073 John J. Williams Highway, near Oak Orchard and Millsboro. Tel. 302-945-3400. Website? http://www.nanticokeindians.org.
For years I have driven past this museum. I looked at it and continued on. This time, I stopped.
Mr. Sterling Street was in the Museum on that day. I introduced myself and asked if I could take pictures. He gave me permission, but not before he mentioned that I could take all the photos I wanted, but not from the eagles. I was curious and asked him to pardon my ignorance. He said that the Eagle is sacred to the Nanticoke Indian….it flyes the highest and therefore closest to God.
Many years ago I knew Butch Coursey who was a Nanticoke. I have not seen him in many years, but Mr. Street told me that he is still around and that Butch had attended school in the building which is now the Nanticoke Indian Museum. He even brought photos out. There are 2 rooms full of artifacts and information. The library houses a large collection of Native American books, photos, and video presentations. The public is welcome to use the library.
The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Sunday, from Noon until 4 p.m. It takes no time to get there. And, it is only $3 for adults and $1 for children.
The Nanticoke Indian Museum is the only Native American Museum in Delaware. It is also a National Historic Landmark. Every artifact, carving, pottery, basketry, traditional clothing, and tool has been found in the community and offer glimpses of the complex traditional ways of the Nanticoke Tribe.
The portrait of Chief Little Owl caught my attention. If you have visited Bethany Beach, then you must have noticed the Totem Pole that welcomes all visitors to Bethany. That carving is paying hommage to the Nanticoke Indians and, specifically, to Chief Little Owl.
The 2013 Annual Powwow is taking place from September 7th through September 8th. A powwow is a gathering of Native people. And, for the Nanticoke Indians is a time to teach us more about Delaware’s first inhabitants.
So, if the weather is too cool to sit on the beach, and if it is rainy and the shoppers are making you crazy…think about the museums that are scattered throughout Southern Delaware. They are very doable…and let me tell you….kids would love the Nanticoke Indian Museum.
Have a great week-end.
Tags: Activities, Affordable, Delaware, Delaware Beaches, Delaware's Nanticoke Indian Tribe, Millsboro, Museum, Nanticoke Indian Museum, National Historic Landmark, Oak Orchard, Southern Delaware, Southern Delaware Museums, Sussex County, Things to do at the beach, Visit Delaware Beaches, Visit Nanticoke Indian Museum, Visit Southern Delaware, What to do at the beaches
My grand father went to the powwows my father was good friends with Chief Clark. My grand father name was Dennis Paquette,my father’s name was Wilfred, everyone called him Crow.
My Father said we were Cree, I am proud..
I am so glad you sent me your comments. I love the museum and what it stands for. Thank you!