During Native American Heritage Month, Macculloch Hall Historical Museum acknowledges the importance of the traditions and cultures of the indigenous people in the United States in particular the many groups— Whippanongs, Rockawacks, Hopatcongs and the Parsippanongs from the Lenape-Delaware tribe, part of the Algonquin nation— who first lived in Morris County, NJ where the Museum is now. This month MHHM is highlighting native plant species used by indigenous peoples across the country that continue to grow in our historic garden.
Muscadine Grape (Vitis rotundifolia) and Wild Grape (Vitiz app.) are two of the four grape varieties native to North America, used by indigenous people. Both the fruit and leaves were used as a food, for beverages including tea, and for medicine. Grapes were also used as a source of dye for clothing. Grape vines were used to make baskets and other items including a hoop and pin game. These plants were, and still are, an important source of food for game birds and small mammals.
Listen to Grandmother’s Dreamcatcher by Becky Ray McCain: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9gsBI2fpQqo
Learn the history behind the Dream Catcher, and how to make one from Red Hawk of the Cherokees from North Carolina. Two parts (each approximately 4 minutes):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xr8nq8sNx1E
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p94PWr1teDw
To learn more about traditional games including a hoop and pin game made from grape vine: https://nanticokelenapemuseum.org/learning-center/758/a-few-traditional-games/#more-758
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