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Powwows
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Social , Cultural and Spiritual Celebrations
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By Dale Carson
“Pauwau” is the Eastern Algonquian word which evolved into the present day word “powwow,” a term used for the modern festival-like gatherings of Native peoples. The Pauwau was a shaman or “medicine person” who presided over healing and other ceremonies, chanting and using a rattle or a small personal drum. Tribal people would gather around to join in the ceremony, to visit, sing or simply to encourage the shaman. This tradition dates back hundreds of years, prior to the arrival of Europeans.
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Today, the powwow is very much the same kind of social event, only on a larger scale and it often includes food, craft vendors, dancers, drum groups and attendance by the general public. It is a joyous time for everyone. You can bring your littlest children and your oldest relative and they will all have a great time. There is so much to do that is both educational and entertaining.
Many of the western powwows developed in the last part of the nineteenth century when Native people were being herded onto reservations. At first they included war dances, but later they became more social – never losing the warrior aspect, however. Most powwow dancing events today begin with an honoring dance for veterans. The dancing and drumming part of a powwow is far more than entertainment. The various dances provide a way for Native people to share dance styles and dress in their finest regalia. Participants often come from all different areas and tribal nations.
To appreciate what a powwow is, envision a village that springs up for a few days in different places each year. There is probably a powwow somewhere in Indian Country all year long. To Native people, it can bring back the old times, old friends and re-enactments of the old ways. That brings comfort to many.
When I was a frequent powwow exhibitor, I traveled many miles and was so happy to see friends and make new ones. As I set up my stand people would come around and get me caught up on the latest gossip. Then I would go around and do the same. Some people we know are just there to dance, not to compete in the dancing, but to dance for the pure joy of it. These people would ‘hang out’ at our booth and spell us at times during the event. As good, old friends that we love, we would usually end up laughing all day. Friends are one of the best things that make powwows special. And then there is the food, the aromas, the music and camaraderie.
One of the grandest powwows is the feast of green corn and dance festival known as Schemitzun hosted by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation near their reservation. When you get there, you see acres and acres of wigwams, teepees and RV’s, a beautiful sight. The four-day event this year runs from August 21-24 and includes a rodeo. As you walk around the grounds you can hear the throbbing sound of the drums that draw you in. There is anticipation and excitement so thick in the air you can feel it. Schemitzun is one of the largest powwows in the nation.
People come from all over the United States, Canada and beyond to watch or to participate. The Grand Entry of the dancers in full regalia entering the arena in a long snaking line is a beautiful and moving sight to witness. You can see the pride of the dancers and the skill of the workmanship in their garments. Many young people, some traveling with their little ones, have told me that the competition dance money they have won on the powwow circuit has helped pay for their college educations.
When you have driven a long way to a powwow, as many do, you are probably thirsty and hungry when you get there. It is a good idea to bring along bottled water, especially if you have children or if you dance. It wasn’t always possible, but now you can buy bottled water at most powwows. There are many vendors with cold specialty drinks like homemade-style lemonade, strawberry or maple drink—all good and not carbonated. Cranberry juice, iced teas like sassafras, birch bark, raspberry and other natural or herbal drinks are sometimes offered as well. If there is a bit of a nip in the air, you will find a vendor with a nice hot soup or chowder. Chili is a favorite whether it is hot or cold outside.
American Indian food vendors are among the most imaginative cooks in the world. At powwows there are classics like buffalo burgers, Indian tacos and frybreads. There is always room for more variety like blueberry fritters, clam cakes, corn fritters, fruit salads, green salads, baked potatoes with different toppings, corn-on-the cob and good ol’ popcorn. Regional specialties are delightful introductions to a new treat, such as venison stew or shaved moose with onions on a grinder roll or scone. Tacos, tortillas and chilies of all heat levels are just the tip of the iceberg in the Southwest; gumbo, hominy from the Southeast; grilled salmon, huckleberry fritters from the Northwest.
As a vendor-participant of a powwow, the best part of the experience is the early morning of the second day, about dawn; the aroma of fresh brewed coffee luring me in, a few old friends hanging around trading stories and plans is the best time of all at a powwow.
If you know someone who has never been to a powwow, please, take them to one. Believe me, you will not be sorry. They will smile when they think of it after and they will think of you! Aho.
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LOCAL POWWOWS
July 4-6
Mashpee Wampanoag Powwow
483 Greatneck Rd
South Mashpee MA
508-477-0208
July 19-20
Rhode Island Indian Powwow
Rodger Williams Park
Providence RI
401-781-1098
August 15-17
Mohegan Wigwam Powwow
Fort Shantock grounds
Uncasville CT
800-664-3426
August 21-24
Schemitzun Powwow
Minor Farm
North Stonington CT
860-396-6531
www.schemitzun.com
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