Delaware’s Indian traditions on display for 35th year

Saturday’s storms in Sussex County gave way to sunny skies and comfortable temperatures on Sunday.  That was just the right ingredients to bring thousands out to the final day of the Nanticoke Indian Pow-wow in Millsboro.

 This is the 35th year for the gathering of Indian tribes from around the country on land connected with Nanticoke Indian Center.  Tractors pulling visitors were in constant motion throughout the day.  There were craft tables set up around the grounds selling everything from jewelry and art to kids toys. Mountaire Chicken, located in Millsboro also provided some of the food cooked on site.

The main event was the Indian circle where different tribes would show off the various dances of their native tribes.  Various dances described as northern or southern dances along with men’s and later women’s dances were performed.

There were around around 500 native Nanticoke Indians in Sussex County with another 500 located throughout Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Maryland.   The Pow-wow has become the largest recognition of a tribe that first encountered John Smith’s English expedition in the 1600’s.  

The Nanticoke Indians do take advantage of the 21st century in their planning.  They have a Facebook page.  It included many “likes” for the event.