Hundreds Turn Out for Red Cloud Indian School's 125th Anniversary Celebration

posted on October 24, 2013

On October 18, the Red Cloud community—including students, teachers, parents, friends and supporters from as far as California, Louisiana and Virginia—gathered on campus to mark our 125th anniversary. Hundreds were on hand to celebrate through an afternoon of tours, events, and workshops on Lakota language on arts. The day concluded with a traditional wačhípi, and the dancing and drumming continued into the night. The following photos—taken by Red Cloud graduate Juliana Clifford Brown Eyes ’09—show some of the highlights from the celebration.  More student and alumni photos and video are coming soon—check back at www.redcloudschool.org/125 for more!

Bernard Red Cloud III, a direct descendent of Chief Red Cloud, demonstrated the art of quill work in The Heritage Center's gift shop. During the celebration, The Heritage Center hosted two workshops focusing on preserving Native art and using Native art as a tool in the classroom.

Senior, Carrie Beard '14 teaches a lesson on how to introduce yourself in Lakota to a packed classroom of community members, donors & visitors. Red Cloud’s Lakota Language Project, the nation’s first comprehensive K-12 Lakota language curriculum, hosted a variety of workshops during the 125th anniversary celebration.

During Mass, Basil Brave Heart holds a traditional eagle staff as the congregation participates in a prayer to the four directions. Held in beautiful Holy Rosary church, the Mass blended both Catholic and Lakota traditions and practices.

A traditional Lakota star quilt was draped over the altar during a special 125th Anniversary evening Mass, which incorporated both Lakota and Catholic ceremonies. Attendees heard from Red Cloud President Fr. George Winzenburg and former President Fr. Peter Klink, and listened to Lakota drumming during an honoring song performed for Chief Red Cloud.

Dancers took the floor during an traditional evening Wačhípi, or powwow. Eleven local drum groups kept the rhythm for a spectacular grand entry followed by hours of dancing by students, local youth and community members.

Dancing is an incredibly important part of Lakota culture. It keeps spirits high while connecting dancers and participants to the present through the strong beat of heart-pounding drums. Many children start dancing as soon as they can walk and continue throughout their lives. Parents and relatives spend countless hours designing and crafting colorful regalia—all of which contributes to a bright and beautiful experience.

For more pictures cick here: Flickr & Facebook