In Westport, mishoon accomplished

May 22, 2023

Indigenous artists complete the construction of a mishoon, or Wampanoag canoe, at the Westport Town Farm

Annawon Weeden and Andre Strong Bear Heart Gaines recently led a traditional Wampanoag mishoon (canoe) construction as artists-in-residence. Their work was a communal effort involving Wampanoags, Nipmucs, apprentices, and guests, reviving ancient craftsmanship. The project aimed not only to create the canoe but also to foster community, educate about indigenous traditions, and preserve cultural heritage. The initiative, organized by the Wampanoag Experience and supported by various groups, welcomed the public for hands-on learning sessions. Weeden emphasized the importance of educating others about their traditions, highlighting the challenges faced in practicing cultural customs over time. The collaboration between Weeden and Strong Bear Heart symbolized a generational continuity in preserving indigenous heritage. While the mishoon construction phase ended, the canoe will be displayed at the Westport River Watershed Alliance, offering opportunities for the public to engage with Wampanoag culture through demonstrations, exhibits, and events throughout the summer.

Read the Full Article
October 15, 2026
As land acknowledgements grow in popularity, Indigenous people have mixed feelings By Namu Sampath | nsampath@repub.com Greta Jochem | gjochem@repub.com  Published: Oct. 11, 2026, 5:45 a.m.
By Andre Strongbearheart Gaines Jr. • May 6, 2026
Ripples through time: Nipmuc-led organization hosts an Indigenous canoe-making event in Ashfield by Johnny Depin - May 6, 2026
April 29, 2026
Ripples through time: Nipmuc-led organization hosts an Indigenous canoe-making event in Ashfield by Johnny Depin - April 29, 2026
By Andre Strongbearheart Gaines Jr. • January 6, 2026
New England native tribes work to honor and uplift heritage
By Andre Strongbearheart Gaines Jr. • August 13, 2025
Written by Margaret Smith Worcester Magazine August 13th, 2025
March 27, 2024
Celebrating Native American Culture and Voices in Marlborough
Mishoon canoe burning at sunset in Wesport, MA
December 12, 2023
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.
Melissa (Harding) Ferretti, Golden Dragonfly, standing next to the burning mishoon canoe.
August 23, 2023
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.
3 indigenous Nipmuc men wearing traditional clothing
August 7, 2023
Andre Strongbearheart talks about the work of preserving Nipmuc traditions, decolonization, and passing these practices to the next generation with LTC Production Volunteer Carolyn.
Trees being harvested by members of the Nimpuc Nation
July 16, 2023
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.