By Valerie Franchi, Contributing Writer
Grafton – Nipmuc Indians have resided in Grafton since before recorded history and Nipmuc Nation is stronger than ever.
The tribe will be holding its 92nd annual Powwow Sunday, July 29, at the Hassanamesit Reservation in Grafton. The festival features traditional dancing, drumming, food, kids’ crafts and vendors.
According to Chief Wunnonmetah Cheryll Toney Holley, who took over as leader of the tribe at the powwow in 2013, there will also be a naming ceremony in which new members are given traditional Nipmuc names.
“My twin grandsons will be taking part in the naming ceremony this year,” noted Holley, whose tribal name means “true heart” in the Nipmuc language.
The new members will be added to the more than 600 tribe members in Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island, making it one of the largest tribes in New England.
According to the tribe’s website, “it is the mission of Nipmuc Nation to preserve and promote Nipmuc culture, language and values, while improving the quality of life for all our citizens and the generations to come.”
The three-and-a-half-acre reservation, which in Nipmuc means “place of small stones,” is on the National Registry of Historic Places and a source of pride for Nipmuc Nation.
“Our reservation is the only piece of land in Massachusetts that has never been occupied by anyone but the Nipmuc tribe,” Holley explained.
One feature of the reservation is the Hassanamisco Museum, which has been undergoing renovations for the past two years. The building, known as The Homestead, was originally built in 1801 as a residence. In 1962, the structure and another adjacent building opened as a museum, showcasing the arts, crafts and way of life of Native Americans in central Massachusetts.
According to Holley, renovations to the outside have been completed.
“The next step is fundraising so we can start renovating the inside,” she said. “We want to restore it to its original 1801 look as much as possible.”
The tribe has received donations and grants from the town of Grafton and state. Holley said she was unsure when the museum would be able to reopen.
Nipmuc Nation still holds events throughout the year and hosts school and Scout groups to educate them about Native American culture.
They also have introduced Nipmuc language classes.
“The language was almost extinct,” Holley admitted. “We are trying to revitalize it but it is a lot of work. We are trying to keep the traditions alive for future generations.”
The powwow, at the Hassanamesit Reservation, 80 Brigham Hill Road, Grafton, is open to the public. Gates open at 10 a.m. Donations requested are adults $4 and children $2.
For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/923410607705447.