Miami Indian Heritage Days Begins Saturday, May 7, 2011 in Fort Wayne

Chief Richardville House

Sponsored by the History Center, Miami Indian Heritage Days programs are held from 1-4 pm on the first Saturday of the month, May through November, and feature local artists, performers, and representatives from the Miami Indians and other Native American groups demonstrating aspects of their lasting heritage for the public to enjoy.

Admission for each Saturday event is  $7 adults and $5 students and seniors. History Center members and children ages 5 and under are free. Admission also includes the opportunity to visit the Chief Richardville House.

Miami Chief Jean Baptiste de Richardville

“Medicine Woman Drum” will be featured May 7 beginning at 1 p.m.  The group performs traditional drumming, singing, and dancing that have played a major role in traditional Miami society.

On June  4,  Erik Vosteen will present traditional Great Lakes weaponry including hand and throwing weapons as well as the atlatl.

Vosteen will return on July 2,  Erik Vosteen, for a demonstration on traditional Great Lakes pottery.

The August 6 program by Katrina Mitten will feature Native American bead work.

September 3, Dani Tippman presents “Miami Harvest” on edible and usable plants and materials.

M.I.A.M.I. (Miami Indiana Alliance of Miami Indians) will present programs on October 1 about  traditional wikiami building and cattail matting.

November 5 and 6 is Traders Days. Vendors, craftsmen and artists sell quality Native American items including fine art, gourd work, beading, carved wood pieces, corn husk dolls, Christmas ornaments, Native American shields, jewelry, clothing, feather work, homemade baked goods and more. Traders Days events are free to the public and are open Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday noon to 4 p.m.

Miami Chief Jean Baptiste de Richardville built a trading empire in this area that made him the richest man in Indiana by the time of his death in 1841. His home, built in 1827, is one of the premier attractions in the Historical Society’s collection since the restoration of the building’s exterior. Today his house is recognized as the oldest Native American dwelling in the Midwest and the first Greek Revival style house in northeast Indiana.

For more information, contact the History Center at (260) 426-2882 or visit the website at www.fwhistorycenter.com.