Braintanning with Andre Strong Bear Heart of the Nipmuc Nation
March 31, 2022
Braintanning with Andre strongbearheart of the Nipmuc Nation
Ohketeau Cultural Center, 2022
In a video, Andre Strongbearheart Gaines Jr. from the Nipmuc Nation guides viewers through the traditional braintanning process. This method involves using the brains of animals, typically deer or buffalo, to soften and tan hides, resulting in a flexible and high-quality leather material. Gaines shares insights into the steps, including hide preparation, brain application, and the cultural significance of braintanning within Indigenous traditions.
Ripples through time: Nipmuc-led organization hosts an Indigenous canoe-making event in Ashfield by Johnny Depin - May 6, 2026
Ripples through time: Nipmuc-led organization hosts an Indigenous canoe-making event in Ashfield by Johnny Depin - April 29, 2026
New England native tribes work to honor and uplift heritage
Written by Margaret Smith Worcester Magazine August 13th, 2025
Celebrating Native American Culture and Voices in Marlborough
On May 2023, the collaborative effort of Westport River Watershed Alliance, Westport Land Conservation Trust, and Wampanoag Experience resulted in the 24/7 burning of a traditional Native American canoe, overseen by tribal members. The event, from May 13th to June 24th, provided a unique insight into Native American traditions and culminated in the River Day festival on June 24th.
The Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe embarked on a significant cultural endeavor by crafting a canoe from a white pine trunk in a traditional mishoon burn.
Andre Strongbearheart talks about the work of preserving Nipmuc traditions, decolonization, and passing these practices to the next generation with LTC Production Volunteer Carolyn.
Town officials in Natick met with members of the Nipmuc Nation to address an incident where Nipmuc individuals harvesting trees were confronted by the police due to a lack of awareness about their agreement with the Conservation Commission.
Annawon Weeden and Andre StrongBearHeart Gaines recently led a traditional Wampanoag mishoon (canoe) construction as artists-in-residence at the Westport Town Farm