This year the Shinnecock Nation hosts the 59th annual Shinnecock Indian Pow Wow at the reservation off Montauk Highway, just west of Southampton Village from Friday to Monday.
The first Pow Wow was organized in 1947 by the late ceremonial chief of the Shinnecocks, Henry Bess - Chief Thunder Bird, in order to focus the community on their identity as native people and to welcome non-natives so that they could learn about their native neighbors. Chief Thunder Bird welcomed his guests by saying "Sit together in peace on Good Mother Earth".
The first event was held on the front lawn of the Thunder Bird home. The Pow Wow has grown into a large gathering of native and non-native peoples from across North America and beyond. It is held on the several acre Pow Wow grounds on the reservation. The focal point of the festivities is the drum, a raised circular platform for performances of dance and music, newly decorated this year with a design by Shinnecock Elder, Elizabeth Thunder Bird Haile, daughter of Chief Thunder Bird.
The Pow Wow is the sole source of income for the Shinnecock Nation as a whole.
Performances are of native music and dancing are scheduled. Also featured are the 'world music' group Yarina and blues musician Arvil Byrd.
Join the celebration from Friday evening with performances at 7pm and Saturday and Sunday with grand entry at 12 Noon and performances at 12noon and 7pm. On Monday a performance is scheduled for 12 noon. There will be numerous stands with native art and food.
For more information call the Tribal Office at 631-283-6143 or call 631-204-9301.
