A group of Wampanoag youth in grades 3-6 are working on creating a traditional homesite exhibit at the Quashnet school under the guidance of tribal members Darius Coombs and Eleanor "Toodie" Coombs. The project is funded through the ARP-AIRE grant run by Talia Landry. The Thirteen Moons exhibit will feature six sections traditionally found in a Wampanoag homesite. The space will have a small wetu and designated areas for planting mounds, recreational games, cooking, fishing, and working with hides.
The exhibit is meant to demonstrate how Wampanoag people have lived for thousands of years, showing that these practices continue into today's times. According to Darius, having the youth work on a project like this not only helps them learn more about tribal cultural ways but also instills a further sense of pride within them as Wampanoag people.
The Thirteen Moons exhibit is currently projected to be finished by the end of the year. Once completed, the space will be used as an educational tool where children within the school can learn more about Wampanoag people. There are also hopes for it to remain as a communal space where people can come and work within the different areas.
Kutâputush to all involved for helping create this exhibit that will make an impact for years to come. The tribal community looks forward to seeing the finalized exhibit.