Nanticokes keep Native American culture alive
Just before the first grand entry into the dancing circle at the 43rd annual Nanticoke Indian Powwow, two bald eagles appeared overhead. It was a symbol of strength and renewal for the Nanticokes, who have had two of their last four powwows canceled. In 2019, the event was rained out and in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic prohibited large gatherings.
Moving to a new venue at Hudson Fields near Milton, the Sept. 11-12 powwow attracted a crowd of thousands on both days. Early in the day Sept. 11, the parking lot was full, with cars being directed to overflow parking.
While dancing and music are the highlights of every powwow, dozens of vendors set up shop, and food booths had long lines both days.
Proceeds from the powwow will support the Nanticoke Tribe’s ongoing $3 million capital campaign for a restored and renovated Nanticoke Indian Cultural Community Center, and a restored museum with a welcome center addition.
![Nanticoke Chief Natosha Carmine, in her sixth year as tribal leader, welcomes spectators to the 43rd annual powwow with a theme of brave, strong and resilient.](/sites/capegazette/files/2021/09/field/image/_DSC2499.jpg)
![With the American flag flying in the breeze behind him, Nanticoke Matt Harmon gives a flute presentation.](/sites/capegazette/files/2021/09/field/image/_DSC2535.jpg)
![Luke Wright, an 8-year-old Nanticoke Tribe member, gets some last-minute advice from this uncle, Mike Harmon, as he begins his first powwow dance session.](/sites/capegazette/files/2021/09/field/image/_DSC2907.jpg)
![Nanticokes Herman Jackson and Larry Jackson display a handmade Nanticoke Powwow quilt, which was raffled off Sept. 12.](/sites/capegazette/files/2021/09/field/image/_DSC2957.jpg)
![Keith Anderson, of the Virginia-based Red Crook-ed Sky dance troupe, is the featured male dancer who recently was part of a performance at the Kennedy Center.](/sites/capegazette/files/2021/09/field/image/_DSC2962.jpg)
![Stoney Creek drummers from North Carolina join with the Red Blanket Singers from New Jersey to provide music during the powwow.](/sites/capegazette/files/2021/09/field/image/DSC_2385.jpg)
![Dancers from dozens of tribes take part in the annual powwow, one of the few on the usual schedule this year.](/sites/capegazette/files/2021/09/field/image/_DSC2339.jpg)
![Adrienne Harmon and Keith Anderson lead a march of veterans during the daily tribute to those who have served the country.](/sites/capegazette/files/2021/09/field/image/_DSC2899.jpg)
![Local author Ed Moran is selling the second edition of his book, “The Dreamcatcher of Rehoboth Beach,” to benefit the Nanticoke Indian Tribe.](/sites/capegazette/files/2021/09/field/image/_DSC2028.jpg)
![An inaugural car show, sponsored by Southern Delaware Street Rod Association, features vehicles of all types, including Art Wilson’s Sharkmobile dune buggy.](/sites/capegazette/files/2021/09/field/image/_DSC2014.jpg)
![By far, the most popular powwow food is flatbreads prepared at many food booths, including Hill Taco.](/sites/capegazette/files/2021/09/field/image/_DSC2053.jpg)
![During the Birds of Prey Show, Phung Luu explains the habits of the silvery hornbill, which is native to wooded areas in Asia and Africa.](/sites/capegazette/files/2021/09/field/image/_DSC2069.jpg)