Tree-Bending Ceremony To Honor Indigenous History – Brothertown Peacemaker Tom Smith to speak

May 1, 2025 by wottery in Uncategorized

Deerfield Park District: Tree-Bending Ceremony To Honor Indigenous History

April 29, 2025 Patch.com (Deerfield)

Speakers will lead a discussion about Native American Trail Marker Trees, their historical significance, and their role in navigation.

Following the discussion, guests will witness the commemoration of a new oak sapling, purposefully bent to serve as a future trail marker. (Deerfield Park District)

The Deerfield Park District invites you to a meaningful and educational event on Sunday, May 4, from 11:00am to 12:00pm at Trail Tree Park (375 Carlise Avenue) as we honor the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous Peoples in northern Illinois.

This Tree-Bending Ceremony will feature guest speakers and experts:

Gail Spreen-Downes of the Great Lakes Trail Marker Tree Society
Tom Smith, Tribal Peace Maker of the Brothertown Indian Nation
Rob Sulski, Restoration Ecologist with Foot Stone Inc.

These speakers will lead a fascinating discussion about Native American Trail Marker Trees, their historical significance, and their role in navigation.

Following the discussion, guests will witness the commemoration of a new oak sapling, purposefully bent to serve as a future trail marker. This new tree is intended to carry on the legacy of the existing marker, which is approaching the end of its natural life. The program will conclude with a smudging and blessing ceremony to honor this transition.