Many Hands to the Land: Volunteers Gather to Clear Future Abenaki Cultural Center Site

By Mary Carter
EAGLE TIMES CORRESPONDENT
CLAREMONT, NH –Moved by acts of injustice across this country, Claremont residents Jeanne Kennedy and Rick Bascom donated an 11.37-acre parcel to the Koasek band of the Abenaki Nation. Chief Paul ‘Gwilawato’ Bunnell was humbled by their gesture. After months of planning, permits and process, the true work begins. One of the first tasks was to clean up the dumpsite that had existed on the property since the 1970s. A work date was set for Wednesday, June 14th.

Helpers, friends and allies came from as far away as Concord, NH and as close as next door. A neighbor saw the Koasek banner at the base of the drive and became curious. When she learned of the dreams that were envisioned for this “very special place,” she rolled up her sleeves and joined in.

The undertaking was supervised by Sullivan County’s Natural Resources Director, Lionel Chute. Chute is an infectiously engaging man. He could motivate a sloth to tap dance. During Lionel’s keynotes about how to work safely in a landfill, a lone bullfrog supplied a steady commentary from the nearby pond. When Chief Paul warmly thanked everyone, calling upon the Abenaki ancestors to watch over their efforts that day, a chorus of frogs resounded, proving that the Abenaki truly do possess a spiritual connection with nature’s world.

As the volunteers dug into the fifty-foot long dumpsite, Chief Paul spoke of his visions for this land. At the crest of the drive, a welcoming center would house archives, a learning museum and a library. A mini-village would exist for exploration on the commanding hill. Chief Paul’s goals are to preserve and honor animal life, encourage the growth of indigenous plants and to introduce some special turtle species to the pond. Programs and events would be available to the public, beginning with a summer solstice fireside and drumming celebration from 10am — 3pm on June 24th. The property also adjoins conservation land owned by Valley Regional Hospital. Chief Paul hopes to work together in creating a network of nature trails.

As he spoke, volunteers brought items discovered in the landfill, ranging from a still shiny toaster to a rusted bear trap. Natural Resources Education and Outreach Specialist Dawn Dextraze found a sapling that had fashioned its roots

around broken bottles and cans. Chief Paul commended its instincts for survival. Everyone enjoyed the tree frog that remained close and unruffled by the cleanup.

Chief Paul’s Abenaki name, Gwilawato, means “He Who Looks for Something.” An author, educator and a leading tribal genealogist, Chief Paul is proud of his many bloodlines. On his father’s side, he is a descendant of Benjamin Bunnell, a New Jersey Quaker who sided with Benedict Arnold and was part of the Great Loyalist Exodus to Canada. On his mother’s side, he has ties with six tribes. Chief Paul’s dream is that this land will house a haven where people of all ancestries can coexist and learn in harmony and peace.

Chief Paul, Lionel Chute and Dawn Dextraze expressed their gratitude to the volunteers who are helping to shape the Koasek Center. To lend a hand at a future event, email Chief Paul at [email protected].