Iron County Historical Museum collaborating with local tribe

Photos by Kevin Zini

CASPIAN – The Iron County Historical Museum hosted a luncheon to celebrate a renewed collaboration with representatives of the Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians and local dignitaries. 
Following the luncheon, the group took a look at several artifacts the museum owns. This work party was the first of many in rebuilding the Native American Exhibit at the museum. “Heritage Hall needed a major face lift and everything needed to be moved out to do that. The Native American Exhibit has been a part of the museum from day one. In putting it back together, we wanted to honor this part of Iron County’s heritage and make sure we were telling the story correctly”; says Museum Director Kathlene Long. “We are so grateful that Alina Shively, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO), and Lisa McGeshick, Deputy THPO of the Tribal Historic Preservation Office of the Lac Vieux Desert Band of the Lake Superior Chippewa Indians were able to join us today.”
The luncheon, catered by Brenda Davis, gave the group a chance to get to know each other before moving into work party mode. “Meeting everyone involved with this project made for a wonderful experience, especially hearing about everyone’s unique expertise,” shared Shively.
Many artifacts and pieces of art have been donated to the museum over the years. In good faith, things have been added to the exhibit that are not actually authentic to the history of Iron County’s Natives. In bringing experts into the conversation, museum personnel are hopeful of putting this exhibit back together in a more meaningful and authentic way.”
After the passing of their son, Carol and Harvey White donated Michael White’s dance regalia to the museum. Among the many things discussed was how best to display the regalia and tell Michael’s story. Long explains: “We have the opportunity to share something really special with our visitors and are humbled by the generosity and trust of the White Family.”
“Lac Vieux Desert appreciates the effort to collaborate and create an exhibit that shows the true history and culture of the Ojibwe people who have occupied these lands for over 1,000 years,” offered Shively with gratitude.