This weekend the drums will sound on the banks of the Pocomoke River once again, much like they did centuries ago. Members of the Assateague and other American Native people, some travelling from North Carolina, Florida, and New Jersey will join the Delmarva members in celebration at the 19th Annual Drums on the Pocomoke Powwow on Saturday May, 19th and Sunday May 20th at Cypress Park in Pocomoke, MD.

According to Joyce “She Who Loves Wolves” Hilliard, Secretary/Grant Writer of the Assateague Tribe who also assists with organizing the powwow, the 75 active tribal members combine the teachings of the Elders from the various American Native tribes to practice the old ways of life.

“The powwow is one way to bring the indigenous peoples together to celebrate and share an ancient culture,” Hilliard explained.

Long ago the Assateagues, who were once known as the Kickotanks, or the Great Assateagues, lived along the tidal regions of the bays and oceans, and the swamps and marshlands of the Eastern Shore region of Delaware, Maryland and Virginia. The tribe was considered the most warlike of the shore Indians, but they shared the same belief of most native peoples—that only the creator could own the earth and thus the land. When the English settled on the Delmarva Peninsula, they brought with them their concept of land ownership, and forced the native people from their homes and way of life.

The Drums on the Pocomoke Powow is a celebration of the old customs and traditions—a way to bring them into the modern world; it’s also a community-oriented event that the public at large is invited to attend. Traditionally, the powow is where native people honor the Mother Earth and all of their ancestors who have passed on. Visitors to the powwow will notice and appreciate the dancing, craftsmanship, and music.

“When visitors come in to the powwow they get to hear the beat of the drum, the different dance styles, and the many different regalias—all of which we have made ourselves. We have cloth dresses, leather regalia, fancy dancer, grass dancer. The coloring is beautiful and the styling very different for each person,” said Hilliard.

There are a variety of dances and styles, including a special dance for children. The public is invited to participate in the dances. This year’s powwow features a new drum, the Na Ma Wo Chi. Vendors will be offering handmade crafts as well as Indian Tacos and Fry Bread, among other treats. Raffles include everything from a pendelton quilt to a knife handmade by Chief Medicine Cat. An $8.00 wristband is available for anyone who would like to attend both days.

“We really want to invite the public to come and have a wonderful weekend with us,” said Hilliard. The tribe is also available to answer any questions during the powwow.