Nanticoke’s first female chief focuses on the future

Chief Natosha Norwood Carmine is the first female to head up the Nanticoke tribe in southern Delaware.

Andrea Gibbs

November 6, 2017

Chief Carmine, the Nanticoke's first female chief, looks to pass on Native American traditions.
Inside the Nanticoke Museum in Millsboro, DE

The Nanticoke tribe celebrated their 40th Annual Powwow in Millsboro on September. “It’s a time of renewal and refreshing our spirits,” said Chief Natosha Norwood Carmine, the first female to head up the tribe.

Carmine ran unopposed for the position and assumed the role on January 5, 2016. Becoming the tribe’s first female chief, she says, has brought a new-found interest in the Nanticoke.

Activities such as the powwows, which Carmine believes is the only powwow on the Eastern Shore, have also increased the tribe’s visibility.

“We have visitors from all over the United States. And some of our dancers and drummers have participated in powwows outside of Delaware.”

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Nestled in Sussex County, the Nanticoke way of life used to resemble a closeness. But over the years, that tight-knit bond faded.

Carmine wants to restore it. She believes bridging the gap between the older and the younger generation is the answer.

She’s hoping an increase in events and activities aimed at the youth and elders will bring back unity within the tribe.

“It’s the family tie that will make the association or any organization or any ethnic group come together stronger and better,” said Carmine.

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