By John Speer
Editor
Billed as "the original all-Indian Powwow in the State of Iowa, the Powwow Grounds on the Meskwaki Settlement west of Tama will again be alive with tribal ceremonial dances in colorful regalia beginning next Thursday.
Article Photos
Scene from 2011Meskwaki Powwow.
News-Herald file/J.Speer
The Meskwakis or Sac and Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa will host their 98th annual Powwow on the traditional Powwow Grounds along the Iowa River just off Tama County Road E49.
Performances are at 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Sunday, Aug. 9-12.
Thursday is designated Children's Day, Friday is Senior Citizens Day, Saturday is Veterans Day and Sunday is a day of Special Events.
Fact Box
NEWS-HERALD ? IT OUT:
WHAT:?98th annual Meskwaki Powwow
WHEN:Thurs-Sun- Aug 9-12- performances at 1:30 & 7 p.m. daily
WHERE:?Meskwaki Powwow Grounds, 3 miles west of Tama on Tama County Road E49.
According to A Brief History of the Meskwaki People, the Powwow originates "from the traditional religious and social beliefs of the Tribe."
It grew from an event termed the "Green Corn Dance" held after the crops were harvested.
The celebration was termed "Field Days from 1902-12" when the name was changed to Powwow according to Tribal historian Jonathan Buffalo.
In addition to the traditional dances, there are historical exhibits, crafts including art work and jewelry are displayed and Native American food is served.