The celebration will deepen attendees' knowledge of John Neihardt - specifically during his time in Bancroft. Topics will include an introduction to his wide-ranging interests, including positive relationships with Native Americans, his love of poetry and the works he wrote while living in the town, his character and sense of fun, and his interests and entertainments. Anthony Warrior will give a presentation on Native American food and diet, and his catering service, Warrior’s Palate Catering, will provide lunch to the first 75 people. Former State Poet Matt Mason will emcee and present on Neihardt's life while living in Bancroft. Current State Poet Jewel Rodgers will give a poetry reading. Coralie Hughes, Neihardt's granddaughter, will discuss John's character as reflected in his writing. Nebraska State Historical Society Director Daryl Bohac will discuss the importance of preserving Nebraska history. Gary Fugman of Ne-BRASS-ka Brass Band Quintet will discuss the music and instruments that Neihardt would have listened to, and his band will perform. Visit the event website for a full schedule.
Contact Information
Title: Email: Phone: Website: City:
44th Annual Neihardt Spring Conference “Twilight of the Sioux: From the Indian Wars to Wounded Knee” (Read More)
The conference theme this year is inspired by the 100th anniversary of the publication of The Twilight of the Sioux. Published as a combination of the last two chapters (or songs) of John Neihardt's book "A Cycle of the West," the book "Twilight of the Sioux" addresses the tragedy experienced by Plains Indians in the "Song of the Indian Wars" and "Song of the Messiah." The former tells of the period of migration and the last great fight for the bison pastures between the invading white race and the Plains Indians (1854-1890), and the latter addresses the conquered people and the worldly end of their great dream, closing with the battle of Wounded Knee (1890). The historical events that Neihardt wrote about changed the United States in innumerable and fundamental ways. Using his writing as the framework and centering Native American experts as speakers, this conference will spark discussion by broadening perspectives and considering the long-term impact of how history is framed. Tickets are required, and the price ranges from $15-$35, depending on student/member status and the inclusion of lunch. Click here for more information, and to purchase tickets. Topics and speakers include: Incorporating and Engaging Native Histories on Public Lands, Broc Anderson, M.A., Director of Historic Sites for the Nebraska State Historical Society The Act and Impact of Crazy Horse's Death at Ft. Robinson, Sandy Wounded Arrow, M.A., Site Director, Ft. Robinson Nebraska State Historic Site Lakota Oral Tradition in “Black Elk Speaks,” Delphine Red Shirt, PhD, Stanford University “The Oregon Trail” and Native Representation on the Plains, Margaret Huettl, PhD, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh NAGPRA - Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, Calvin Harlan, Acting Deputy Chief, Omaha Tribe of Nebraska Moderator: Nancy Gillis
