Earlier this October, a contingent of Forests & Wildlife Stewards drove north to Onamia, Minnesota for a special field trip to the Mille Lacs Indian Museum. The day included a visit to the trading post, and lunch in nearby Kathio State Park. However, the highlight was the museum itself.
The museum is like a tapestry in which the culture, history and art of the Ojibwe is woven into the fabric of a fabulous structure. Through displays, signage and videos we were able to experience the traditional dances of the powwow, and natural plants and berries used for medicine and sustenance, including wild rice. We were also able to study historical timelines, learn about the sovereignty of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, and view replicas of the various treaties signed with the United States government. The pièce de résistance though is the Four Seasons Room, which includes life-sized dioramas modeled after actual Mille Lacs Band members. Led by our guide, James, we traveled back in time to the late 1800's and experienced the ways of the Ojibwe through the seasons. We explored hunting and gathering techniques, seasonal camps, many of which were permanent structures–including the winter camp with heated floors–and learned how the seasons guided the people throughout the course of the year. We are hoping to have another outing in the future with more of our North Star Chapter members.