The Announcement. Arikara. Photo by Edward S. Curtis. Courtesy of a2zcds. www.a2zcds.com
Historical Intro
Arlie Neskahi discusses the Mandan and Hidatsa tribes who shared their villages with the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1804-5, and upon their return trip in 1806.
Elder Wisdom
Brian Bull features Edwin Benson, Mandan linguist and storyteller, regarded as one of the last tribal members fluent in his Mandan language, who is helping teach the language in the tribe’s schools.
Sacred Landscape
Judy Bluehorse Skelton explores the woman’s role in Hidatsta and Mandan gardening, and the damage brought about because of the Dawes Act and other government programs.
Tribal Rhythms
Nico Wind visits with Hidatsa songkeeper, Alex Gwin, who speaks about society songs and how they help his people celebrate who they are and what they can achieve.
Contemporary Rhythms
Milt Lee talks with Keith Bear, an award-winning Mandan-Hidatsa flute player, and how the pain of personal and historical loss was overcome with the development of his relationship with his flute.
Turtle Island Storytellers
Hidatsa storyteller and musician, Victor Mandan, tells the story of his ancestor, Cherry Necklace, who vision quested in a pit with snakes, and offers his philosophy on why snakes are so feared.