Nanticokes celebrate Heritage Day
The history of the Nanticoke Indian Tribe was brought to life during the annual Heritage Day May 6 at the tribe’s museum along Route 24 near Long Neck.
The highlights of the day were traditional storytelling by Ragghi Rain and dancing by tribal members of all ages coordinated by Adrienne Harmon. The event also included Native American vendors, tours of the museum and food, including Native American fare such as succotash and flatbread.
To say that the Nanticoke Tribe moved to different locations throughout its history would be an understatement. In 1744, some Nanticokes settled near Indian River and created the Nanticoke Indian Association. Today, more than 500 tribal members live in the area, mostly in and around Oak Orchard. Prior to that, the Nanticokes had purchased 3,000 acres along Broad Creek near Laurel and Bethel.
The first mention of Nanticokes was in Labrador, Canada. They migrated south and west to the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes region. In the 1600s, some members migrated to the Eastern Shore of Maryland. In 1608, tribal members met and traded with British explorer Capt. John Smith.
By the 1800s, the tribe was centered in areas along the tributaries and banks of the Delaware River. They also united with the Lenni-Lenape Indians who settled in New Jersey.
The tribe now owns a museum and Nanticoke Indian Center along Route 24. The tribe is best known for its two-day powwow, which now takes place at Hudson Fields between Lewes and Milton.
