The annual fair took place August 23rd -September 4th this year!
Photos by Tami Watt
The Indian Village at the Great New York State Fair was in full swing this year! We hope you had a chance to walk through the Six Nation Agriculture Society’s Indian Village for a full cultural experience! Everyday representatives from each Haudenosaunee Nation performed three sets of social songs and dances. The annual Smoke Dance Competition was held Friday, September 1st. It’s always an exciting time watching your favorite smoke dancer take home 1st prize!
This year, Tuscarora was the host nation for the Indian Village. They chose Ariana Smith as their princess to represent their community and traditions.
In the Allegany – Seneca booth, community member Andrea Cooke was soaking splints, making, and selling baskets. She was joined by Karen Farmer, an Onondaga member that sells beadwork crafted bracelets, earrings, necklaces, and yarn belts. Snyder Red Bow Pragle (Tuscarora) was the dancer representing Allegany – Seneca this year. He graciously stepped in for an absent Allegany dancer and was a great asset!
In the Seneca – Cattaraugus booth, Michele Jimerson was selling handmade sock monkeys, drums, and craft items. Kelly Edwards had art in frames and prints for sale. Champion Smoke Dancer Nicole Hill represented the Cattaraugus – Seneca this year.
Jon-Anne Capasso, Seneca – Cattaraugus, was in the Six Nations building with beadwork, earrings, and crafts for sale. Mary Jacobs and Sam Jacobs were set up in the Women’s Workhouse with beaded bags, medallions and moccasins.
Visitors had to chance to watch live craft demonstrations in the women’s workhouse, purchase authentic Haudenosaunee art, herbs and jewelry, view art and agricultural winners from the yearly contest submitted by Haudenosaunee members across NYS.
