Quaboag 350^th Pow Wow set for July 17, 18

By Ruth M. Lyon

Turley Publications Reporter

BROOKFIELD – The Unity Tree pow wow, long in planning and eagerly awaited, say David “Tallpine” White and Ron Couture, will be held Saturday and Sunday, July 17 and 18, at the historic Crosby House, home of Kermit and Jeanne Eaton, Route 9, Brookfield. That home and surrounding property are a short distance from the original Quaboag Plantation atop Foster Hill, where the Nipmuck Indians held siege to the families comprising the original settlers.

White, representing the Nipmuck Indian Council, promises excitement and entertainment for all as he describes two days of dancing, swimming and drumming, flute music and story telling, interspersed with displays of native crafts and other activities.

“There will be more than 30 drummers in all, and tribal council members representing a number of tribes; more than 100 Indians are expected,” White said. “This is a large gathering.”

Couture, working with the Brookfield Quaboag 350^th Committee, has been busy arranging the elaborate details involved in the huge event. “Two large oak trees, probably over 200 years old, provide a presence, a natural setting for what promises to be a unique and exciting opportunity for fellowship and mutual understanding. Planning for the placement of the sacred circle, the fire, drums (the three drums confirmed are Quabbin Lake Singers, Northern Coup Singers, and Oak Spirit Drum) and the vendors are ongoing. “The food has been a huge undertaking,” Couture and Donald Faugno, committee chairman said.

Vendors, traders and craftspeople will encircle the area, Couture says. “We still don’t have a complete list; it just keeps growing. We can promise two days of cultural exploration and not- your-ordinary entertainment in a beautiful, historic setting.”

A Saturday morning bird walk will be led by Bill Cormier of the Bird Store and More of Sturbridge. The walk will begin at 7:30 a.m. at the gazebo on the Brookfield common and make its way through the pow wow fields and nature paths that lead to the bogs along the Quaboag River. Participants are advised to wear appropriate clothing, bug repellent, and bring water; the walk will last until 10:30 a.m.

Attendance for the pow wow is expected to be high. Gates will be open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; admission for adults is $3; children age 12 and under $1. Parking is free inside the gate; there will be no parking along Route 9. Sacred Heart Parish, West Brookfield, will host the food tent and provide food for the entire event. Handicapped parking and restroom facilities will be available. Signs directing visitors will be placed at turnpike interchanges and on local roads, committee members said.

For further information, go to www.Quaboag 350.com, or e-mail brookfieldquaboag2010@gmail.com.