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Starts on the weekend in St. Ignace (photo)

NEWS RELEASE ST. IGNACE HISTORY WEEK ************************* Centuries of fun to be found during St. Ignace History Week Immerse yourself in Michigan’s history or focus on your own later this month, when St.

NEWS RELEASE

ST. IGNACE HISTORY WEEK

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Centuries of fun to be found during St. Ignace History Week

Immerse yourself in Michigan’s history or focus on your own later this month, when St. Ignace History Week presents eight days of genealogical exploration, Michigan’s diverse culture, historic encampments and so much more.
 
Established in 1671, the St. Ignace community has a rich history that is integral to the story of Michigan and is on display throughout History Week.
 
The activity-packed schedule starts on August 18 and culminates with the Rendezvous at the Straits Powwow, August 24-25.
 
History Week events fall into several categories, including performances, classes, presentations, and demonstrations.
 
Most events are held at the Museum of Ojibwa Culture or Fort de Buade Museum – both located in Downtown St. Ignace.
 
Performances include Native Drumming, Marquette Folk Dancers, Grandmother Moon Singers, Métis Dancers, and the living
historians who perform as part of the Native and Voyageur encampment.
 
Lynn Johnson, of Project Lakewell, will portray the 1634 arrival of a woman to St. Ignace.
 
Modern-day Natives and Jesuits will share the story and teachings of Father Marquette.
 
Several genealogy sessions are offered, including the assistance of the “Genie Girls” – three local women knowledgeable in utilizing native rolls, church records, cemetery record and more to explore family history.
 
Presentations will feature a variety of topics – from wilderness survival to the civil war.
 
Researcher Roger Jewell will share his knowledge of the Newberry Tablets – artifacts found near Newberry, Michigan in 1896 with ties to early European civilization.
 
Naturalist Dr. Larry Martin will share wilderness survival tips using Native American techniques. Anthony Miron will weave wonderful campfire stories from Native culture.
 
Demonstrations will leave attendees with new knowledge on how to make maple syrup, tan a hide, or make a Black Ash basket.
 
The Parade of Nations on Friday, August 23, promises to be unforgettable, with a variety of cultures represented and displaying the colors, culture, and music of the world.
 
A variety of museum tours, art displays, and other on-going events happen throughout the week as well.
 
Most of what has been mentioned so far is free of charge, making History Week as affordable as it is fun and interesting.
 
As the week evolves into the weekend, history buffs will focus their attention on the Father Marquette National Memorial in St. Ignace, where the Rendezvous at the Straits Powwow will occur.
 
For two days, the sights and sounds of Native dancing and drumming, French encampments, and vendors exhibiting authentic wares will provide fun, family-friendly entertainment for only a nominal entry fee.
 
The blessing of the grounds will take place August 23, at 1 p.m. and grand entrance events will occur on Saturday and Sunday.
 
For more information about St. Ignace History Week, call (906)643-6950 or visit here.
 
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