Repost from Seneca-Iroquois National Museum FB
For the past 90 years Cornplanter Descendants would gather together annually, on the first Saturday of August every year. This August, Cornplanter descendants were reunited with the Cornplanter monument which is the centerpiece of the Onöhsagwë:de’ Cultural Center’s newest exhibit , Cornplanter.
With the month of August bringing about so many celebrations around themes of family, the lovely Darlene Miller was chosen as August 2024’s Elder of the Month.
Darlene comes from a family where she was one of ten children. Her Great-Grandmother was Sarah Fatty. Sarah was the Great-Grandaughter of William O’Bail, Cornplanter’s third son.
Sarah’s daughter Phoebe, was Darlene’s grandmother who she has fond memories of. Darlene called Phoebe “Delo” and recalls how Delo took her faithfully to every Cornplanter picnic. Darlene enjoyed every picnic, getting to see family you wouldn’t otherwise get to see. The picnics were a fun time and she was sad when they were over but on the long car ride home she was assured that next year she would get to do it again.
Darlene was fortunate to grow up in a household where she was consistently reminded of her heritage and culture. Delo and her Uncle John had particularly influenced Darlene’s values that she now carries with her today. They would mentor her about Cornplanter and the importance of family and knowing where you came from; as well as the importance of the cycle. Darlene was also fortunate enough to grow up in a household where she would hear the Seneca language being used conversationally everyday.
Darlene continues to pass down knowledge that her ancestors had shared with her with as many people as she can. She also works hard as a Faithkeeper to help preserve traditions and revitalize the Seneca language. As a Faithkeeper she has had the responsibility of caring for ceremonies within the cycle as well as naming the newest members of the Hawk clan.
Darlene is a wise and admired elder within our community. When asked if there was anything she wanted the community to know she stated “Share with everyone. The future lies with the children. They are precious stones…gold…they’ll take care of the earth, people, and will pass down all we learn. And remember where we came from. Creator sent us here, some with gifts, and if you have a gift use it to give back.”
Read more about Darlene in our August Elder of the month blog post at https://www.senecamuseum.org/blog/. Learn more about Cornplanter, his descendants, and the importance of honoring your ancestors by visiting our new Cornplanter exhibit. Nya:wëh, Darlene, for sharing your knowledge with us.
