Long ago there was a wise and peace-loving elder who travelled from tribe to tribe
encouraging cooperation and friendship between all nations. He was a spokesman for
the cause of good will and his mission was to promote unity among all beings.
At a very great age the elder called a council meeting of elders and representatives
from the many clans, tribes, and nations which he had visited and taught. He told them
that his work was coming to an end and he must soon join the spirit world. However,
he promised to return in a new form as a reminder of the peaceful brotherhood he had
sought to establish among the nations.
A short time after his death a new plant sprouted from his grave. This was tobacco
and has been used in ceremonies ever since as a symbol of unity, honesty and peace.
The rising smoke from the pipe is a reminder that the thoughts and prayers of people
go upward to the Creator.
by: Little Turtle, Nipmuck Tribe, Dudley Band
from: Concord Museum, Concord, MA c 1988
encouraging cooperation and friendship between all nations. He was a spokesman for
the cause of good will and his mission was to promote unity among all beings.
At a very great age the elder called a council meeting of elders and representatives
from the many clans, tribes, and nations which he had visited and taught. He told them
that his work was coming to an end and he must soon join the spirit world. However,
he promised to return in a new form as a reminder of the peaceful brotherhood he had
sought to establish among the nations.
A short time after his death a new plant sprouted from his grave. This was tobacco
and has been used in ceremonies ever since as a symbol of unity, honesty and peace.
The rising smoke from the pipe is a reminder that the thoughts and prayers of people
go upward to the Creator.
by: Little Turtle, Nipmuck Tribe, Dudley Band
from: Concord Museum, Concord, MA c 1988
