Becoming part of a culture, Pow-Wow (PA)

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9/28-29/19:

Andy Hamilton’s interest in Native American culture began with the Boy Scouts.

After being inducted into the Order of the Arrow honor camping society within scouting, Hamilton of Cranberry Township, Venango County, was invited to his first Native American ceremonial event.

He was hooked from the start.

“I became a big part of (the culture),” Hamilton said.

Hamilton, who went on to join the Children of the Earth group, helped organize the fifth annual Honoring Mother Earth Pow Wow. The event began Friday and continues today and Sunday at the Mercer County Grange Fairgrounds.

The pow wow features Native American dances, songs, drumming, archery, storytelling and other activities, along with vendors and raffle auctions.

“We’re trying to keep a dying culture alive,” Hamilton said. “We come from everywhere and all walks of life.”

In addition to hosting the annual pow wow, Children of the Earth also does demonstrations for schools and other groups interested in learning about Native American culture, Hamilton said.

Blacksmith Joe Graham of Hilliards, Butler County, said this is his fourth time attending the event. Graham, who demonstrates flint-knapping, said he is willing to share his knowledge with anyone who’s interested in learning.

More details, photos at source:  

https://www.sharonherald.com/news/local_news/conveying-the-culture-annual-pow-wow-honors-native-american-heritage/article_ea74e2dd-559c-5fd4-b263-7355dc39d13e.html