Lenape Day Celebrates Native American Contributions

Third graders received an important history lesson on the Lenape Indians and their valuable contributions at this year’s Lenape Day event held on Thursday, May 27.

The all-day program began with a return visit from educator and archaeologist John Kraft, director of Lenape Lifeways, Inc. who visited third grade classrooms to speak about the history of the Lenape Indians and offer an educational program about the Lenape people, their family life, dwellings, diet, and spiritual beliefs. To a captive and excited group of youngsters, Kraft explained that the Lenape people were highly skilled workers who made the things they needed using natural materials and that they also believed that there were spirits all around them – in every animal, plant and rock.

In an interactive and highly entertaining presentation, Kraft demonstrated a variety of Lenape tools, eating utensils, and handmade bowls. Students also enjoyed trying on Native American clothing. After eating a traditional Lenape lunch in the Commons Building, students received Native American names in a Naming Ceremony. They also participated in a variety of Native American games and crafts, making their very own necklaces, headbands and masks.

Much to their delight, students gathered at the end of the day around a full-size teepee outside the Commons as Ranney teacher and Lenape Day coordinator Connie Congemi read them a Lenape Legend.

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