First People of Wisconsin

A continuation of the wonderful programs experienced through the Master Naturalist Program at the MacKenzie Center

A guest speaker from the Ho-Chunk Nation enlightened us on the history of Wisconsin's first people.
The Ho-Chunk, formerly referred to as the Winnebago, began their history in Wisconsin over 12,000 years ago. Their oral history is passed on by having at least three generations present when the stories are told. This way all have a say in the accuracy and any need for corrections or additions is met at the same time. Understanding that it is their story to tell, not mine, I will not elaborate on details.

Tree Marker

He really left us all wanting more information, as many of us in the audience did not have the background on native peoples in our years of education. Now it is mandatory is Wisconsin schools to teach American Indian Studies due to Act 31.

So if you need to catch up I can recommend two books I'm currently reading by Patti Loew, PhD. titled "Native People of Wisconsin " and "Indian Nations of Wisconsin".

Tree Marker

Trees were often used by various native American people to mark trails or significant sites. Here a tree at the center is identified as a marker, probably identifying a linear mound adjacent to it. Young sapling trees are bent just several feet above the ground and trained to grow in a specific direction.