DISCOVERING
THE LURE OF PIPESTONE, MINNESOTA
By Mary Emma
Allen
"Here's some more pipestone," my husband remarked, as we
examined the reddish rock found abundantly in the Pipestone National Monument in western
Minnesota. Jim and I walked over the paths
with friends and explored this land that once had been a source of the pipestone the
Plains Indians used for carving the stone pipes they used and traded.
"It's
fascinating," we concluded and learned more about this craft that still exists
today at the Upper Midwest Indian Cultural Center. Stone
is brought from the quarry at the national monument for native craftspeople to use. They demonstrate their craft and answer questions
you may have about the history and significance of pipestone, which is rooted in Indian
sacred ceremonies.
We
watched the Native American craftspeople carving and creating items from the soft reddish
stone and learned why it originally was used for the pipes.
The natives throughout North America also used other types of stone for
carving pipes and other items. However, the
red pipestone was prized for its softness and its durability.
Pipestone History
Prehistoric and native people used stone pipes of various types for their
ceremonies. Some were elaborate and others
simple and utilitarian. Often called the
"peace pipe" because of its use at treaty signings, the Indian pipes became
popular as something to exchange for goods with the settlers.
The
Yankton tribe sold their claim to the U S Government for the establishment of the
Pipestone National Monument This also protected the quarry and square-mile Indian claim
from outsiders who had begun to dig new pits for the stone.
Only those of Indian ancestry can quarry the stone and provide
demonstrations. They also produce pipes and
other items sold at the museum store.
The Circle Trail
In addition to visiting the Cultural Center, where we talked with native
craftspeople and viewed exhibits, we traversed the �-mile self-guiding trail through the
quarry area and sites of historic significance.
The
Native Americans still use this area for religious and cultural activities. Also, no pipestone can be removed from the site
except by permit.
City of Pipestone
The
city of Pipestone, Minnesota receives attention because of the red stone used for many of
its buildings and the recreational activities. Although
a small town, there are many attractions and festivals; some conducted by native Americans
and others by town residents.
Hiawatha Pageant
The
annual Hiawatha Pageant depicts the story found in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's
narrative poem, The Song of Hiawatha. The
performances, beginning as a small activity in 1949, has grown to a cast of 200 local
people attracting thousands of visitors from all over this country and foreign ones as
well.
Those
putting on the pageant and providing back-up support for costumes, technical and other
duties necessary to complete this are volunteers connected with the Hiawatha Club. Over the years, they've built a 1,500-foot
stage area with 3,500 seating capacity for the nine days the show runs throughout the
summer.
Walking Tour
A
walking tour of the city of Pipestone provides you with a glimpse of the past and present. The tour includes:
The
Moore Block with its Sculptures in Stone, The Ferris Grand Block, former site of the
Ferris Grand Opera House, The Old City Hall now housing the Pipestone County Museum, The
Calumet Inn, The Syndicate Block with many buildings constructed in the Italianate style,
the Early Hospital, the Courthouse, Episcopal and Presbyterian churches, and the Carnegie
Library.
Located
on the prairies of Minnesota, you'll find and enjoy this unlikely treasure of
Pipestone as you travel the west.
For
more information of events and places to see, visit the Pipestone Area Chamber of Commerce
web site: www.pipestoneminnesota.com .
�
2009 Mary Emma Allen
(Mary
Emma Allen writes about many areas she and her husband explore and research. In addition she writes for children and conducts
many writing workshops, as well as gives talks about her travels. E-mail: me.allen@juno.com )
For information about Mary
Emma click here
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