The Village People

As long as I can remember, people from each of the six nations reservations make a yearly mecca to the NY State Fair for Indian Day held the last Friday of August.  Around the edge of the Indian village, each of the reservations showcase their crafts, be it drawings, carvings, beadwork, or other.  It's a time for seeking out old friends in the Indian village, celebrating who we are as a nation, and remembering the importance of keeping our culture alive.

During the afternoon, dancers from different reservations compete against each other as they showoff their costumes and footwork.

Young Girls' Smoke Dance Competition

The thrill of the midway still draws the young; but for the rest of us, we are content with taking respite from the heat in the shade of the village grove, watching the dancers and trading gossip like wampum.

Traditional Indian Cornbread

Of course, the cook house is one of the first places we visit.  For those of us who live far from home, native foods are a real treat, especially Indian Corn Bread.

Last, but not least, we can't forget our Indian princess.  This year, the young lady was a Seneca from the Allegheny reserve, and is a member of the Hawk Clan.  That explains her beauty!

And, such are the people of the village.