PADDLE 2002
August 10-12, 2002
Contact: Guy Capoeman, Vice-Chairman, Tel: 360-276-8211,
ext:346
Invitation
Quinault Indian Nation extends an invitation to the ancestral
voyagers of our ocean highways. Travel our scenic waterways to the land
of the people who are a part of the Quinault Indian Nation. Experience
the richness of the beaches, our river, the land. Join us in the celebration
of cultural experiences that are as old as time it- self.
Canoe Journey History
In 1989, tribes revived the canoe journey for The Celebration of the Washington
State Centennial Accord.
The Quinault Indian Nation, as well as other tribes, are working to heighten
the awareness of native people and their culture by continuing the revival
effort of1989. Come and foster the traditional values of generosity, respect,
forgiveness, honor, humility, commitment, and personal responsibiityl.
Protocol
It is our tradition to honor our guests who have traveled the
farthest by water first. With traditional songs, you will be welcomed
ashore. At our celebration center, songs and dances are also shared according
to distance traveled. The event will end with the Quiriauit Indian Nadon,
as host tribe, sharing the culture of the tribes represented in our nation.
Celebration Center
The Taholah School Gym will be the center of the festivities for Paddle
2002. Quinault Indian Nation President, Pearl Capoeman-Bailler will receive
all represented tribes with a welcoming ceremony. Activities will continue
on in to the evening with traditional songs and dances.
Food
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided to the canoe pullers and
their support crews on August 10, 11, and 12Th. We will be preparing local
food including; fish from our rivers, shellfish from our shores, and deer
and elk from our usual and accustomed hunting areas. Our cooks will be
serving food at several community locations. Our local store and deli
be open for people who want to purchase additional food.
Lodging
Many of our people will open their homes to pullers and their crews for
showers and laundry . Homes in Tahclah will be designated to provide a
warm bed for visiting tribal Elders and leaders. Motels are also located
approximately 15 miles to the south of Taholah. Canoe pullers and their
crews can camp on our community ballfields and beaches. Our police and
event security will be a presence at the camp grounds to assist. Sanicans
will be available both at the campgrounds and throughout the community.
Recreation Activities
The Quinauit Indian Nation's Recreation program is scheduling traditional
games for the youth to participate in. Young adults can Tug of War, foot
races, rock lifting challenges, archery competition, swimming, canoe capsize/racing,
harpoon and ring throw. Winners will receive awards and prizes.
Your Hosts
The Quinauit Indian Nation's people will be hosts to Paddle 2002.
The Quinault Canoe Society will be the lead coordinating team. Questions
about Paddle 2002 can be directed to Guy Capoeman, Quinault Canoe Society
Vice-Chairman.
Click here for
Detailed
Information
Potlatch at Kwi'nail
The first known potIatch among the Quinault people was
around I8OO.
Tribes and villages from as far away as Vancouver isIand and southern
Oregon were invited.
The first day was a dance contest and the potlatch longhouse was full.
Spectators were told to get off the roof shortly before the roof fell
in. Fortunately, people were only injured, and the longhouse was rebuilt.
As visitors came ashore, people gathered to greet them. Canoe crews sang
songs as they arrived. Their chiefs were given presents. Games took place
during the da,y and gambling at night.
The second day was filled with activities. The second evening, the
longhouse was filled with dancing.
The Third day was the giveaway. The host, his tally man, his speaker,
and the gift blanket were at one end of the longhouse. Gifts were handed
out to visitirg tribes and the host made sure everyone received something.
The host challenged the visiing tribes to give a return potatch and usually
someone was prepared to accept. After a "farewell to my wealth"
song by the host, there were speeches of gratitude and The Potlatch concluded.
Courtesy of Quinaljt Historical Foundation
