(Originally published in TOURISM)
It has long been recognized that oral history has stood the test of time among Canada’s indigenous societies as a valid historical record. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been preserving this tradition through a puppetry initiative at the interpretive centre that will become part of the regular program this summer, according to marketing director Quinton Crow Shoe:
“The puppet show is something we want to push this summer because First Nations culture is an oral culture. Many of our stories, traditions and customs are passed down orally. We have taken it a step further – successfully – with puppeteers for school groups and visitors, and we are making this a regular program during the summer for guests to enjoy.”
The heritage site has also enjoyed much success with its tipi camp, which is booking up fast. This is an adventure for all ages, but it appeals most to families or recreational groups who get to spend the night in a canvas tipi and may, upon request, be part of camp set‑up to learn the traditional methods of assembling tipis, as part of an authentic Blackfoot experience.
It has long been recognized that oral history has stood the test of time among Canada’s indigenous societies as a valid historical record. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been preserving this tradition through a puppetry initiative at the interpretive centre that will become part of the regular program this summer, according to marketing director Quinton Crow Shoe:
“The puppet show is something we want to push this summer because First Nations culture is an oral culture. Many of our stories, traditions and customs are passed down orally. We have taken it a step further – successfully – with puppeteers for school groups and visitors, and we are making this a regular program during the summer for guests to enjoy.”
The heritage site has also enjoyed much success with its tipi camp, which is booking up fast. This is an adventure for all ages, but it appeals most to families or recreational groups who get to spend the night in a canvas tipi and may, upon request, be part of camp set‑up to learn the traditional methods of assembling tipis, as part of an authentic Blackfoot experience.
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