Annual powwow drums up interest in cultural celebration

Observer Staff

1/25/2005 12:00:00 AM

Even though it was the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort that drew Art Burgess to the Isabella Reservation, the Detroit resident said going to the 20th Annual Little Elk's Retreat Powwow made the trip extra special.

"We had heard at the casino that the powwow was going on, so we decided to check it out," stated Burgess. "It was such a treat. We hadn't been to the casino before, so discovering that there was a powwow happening made our time extra special."

Burgess and his wife Iris were just a couple of the many people who attended the powwow from Aug. 6-8. The event, which took place at the Saginaw Chippewa Campgrounds, also attracted over 300 dancers and about a dozen drums. The theme of the cultural celebration was "Honoring the Drum." Meskwaki Nation, from Tama, Iowa, will be the host drum for next year's powwow.

The powwow is conducted in honor of the late Eli Thomas, also known as the ceremonial chief Little Elk. He is remembered and regarded as one of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe's most revered cultural and spiritual leaders. His vision of having a gathering on the Isabella Reservation began many years ago with hosting the fall Strawberry Festivals. Chief Little Elk passed on to the Spirit World at the age of 92, shortly after being at the Tribe's sixth annual powwow on Aug. 5, 1990.

Powwow Chairperson Mary Perez said this year's powwow was very successful and wouldn't have taken place if it wasn't for the help of many individuals.

"I want to especially thank the summer youth corps workers, Soaring Eagle Director of Facilities Steve Jablonski, Parks & Recreation Director Chip Neyome, the entire Saginaw Chippewa Campgrounds staff and all of the volunteers who helped make the event possible."