Passamaquoddy member visits WES
Nova Sherman, Trinity Nelson, Alice Puterbaugh, Amesley Franssen, and Shelby Suplinskas sit in the front row practicing their animal hide drums, led by Dwayne Tomah. Courtesy photo
Nova Sherman, Trinity Nelson, Alice Puterbaugh, Amesley Franssen, and Shelby Suplinskas sit in the front row practicing their animal hide drums, led by Dwayne Tomah. Courtesy photo
Fourth and fifth graders at Wiscasset Elementary School had the exciting opportunity to host Dwayne Tomah of the Passamaquoddy Tribe Nov. 15th. He talked to the students about the history and modern-day lives of Maine’s indigenous populations. Students played authentic drums made of animal hide and explored Native American artifacts. The crowd was especially excited by the chance to listen to the original first phonograph recording of native dialogue in Maine.
Tomah is a teacher of Passamaquoddy language and culture. He is a Language Keeper and the youngest fluent speaker of the Passamaquoddy Tribe. His life has been dedicated to working on language and culture preservation of indigenous people. WES is incredibly grateful for such a meaningful experience, and the students and staff look forward to more experiences like this.
