Above image: TSHUSICK. AN OJIBWAY WOMAN, by Alfred M. Hoffy ca. 1838
As part of the 400th anniversary of New Amsterdam and the Lenape, this multi-museum installation (Wave Hill, Historic Richmond Town, South Street Seaport Museum, Bartow-Pell) is featured through the lens of Indigenous maps entitled Still Sacred Ground: Lenapehoking 1625 – 2025*. The maps are part of a series created by Evan T. Pritchard, Director of the Center for Algonquin Culture, and are paired with this corresponding audio narrative – Lady Chieftains: Saunksquas – featuring Indigenous female leaders. This dual presentation is curated by Oleana Whispering Dove, Keeper of Cultural Lifeways, Curator of Indigenous Exhibitions and Public Programs. The presentation of these culturally significant maps not only brings awareness to local Indigenous habitude, land utilization, and land preservation, it is also a captivating visual archive of a world where women were the heads and official governing bodies of pre-colonial sovereignty.
Saunksquas; Wasowancett, Annetie Pownock, Karacapomont, Konaandekung, Mama Nuchwe, and Dostou reigned long before Sojourner Truth, Susan B. Anthony, Matilda Gage, Lucretia Mott, and Gloria Steinham. These appointed Native American lady chieftains held the highest-ranking offices in their communities. Known as Saunksqua, they were referred to by European settlers as Her Royal Majesty, the King’s Queen, and Indian Princess.
*Still Sacred Ground: Lady Chieftains audio presentation addresses who the female Lenape chiefs/saunksquas were, their significant contribution to treaty negotiations, and how they governed entire regions within Lenapehoking and beyond. The Indigenous time portal creates a space for reflection, reverence, remembrance, and cultural exchange.
Visit a participating Museum or cultural center October 11th through 30th, 2025: Bartow Pell Mansion Museum, Historic Richmond Town, The South Street Seaport Museum, and Wave Hill. Visit at least 3 out of 4 locations and receive a gift when you show all 3 QR code receipts at your last location.
Please note: Gift distribution is valid until October 25, 2025.