Honoring the
Pocomoke Indian Nation
A Maryland 250 Event ~
Saturday, June 6
10 am - 2 pm
At Furnace Town Historic Site, we believe that the stories of this land are deep and interconnected. As part of the Maryland 250 commemorations, we are honored to host the Pocomoke Indian Nation for a day dedicated to the history, lifeways, and enduring spirit of the region's first stewards.
Tradition Bearer Demonstrations
Walk among the grounds and witness the ingenuity of the Nusswattux people. Throughout the morning, Pocomoke Tradition Bearers will share their expertise through live demonstrations and displays, including:
The Art of the Hearth & Hunt: Discover the skill of flintknapping and the traditional use of stone and bone tools for hide tanning and hunting.
Spirit of Sound: Experience the resonance of the river cane flute and the water drum.
Resourceful Craft: Learn the delicate process of creating cattail decoys.
Interactive Learning: Participate in "make-and-take" activities focused on the native natural resources of our region.
Featured Lecture: Past, Present, and Future
Presented by Norris (Buddy) Howard Jr. Join us for a deeply insightful presentation as Buddy Howard Jr. explores the Pocomoke Indian Nation’s journey through time. This lecture focuses on the Nusswattux Subtribe and their history on this landscape—specifically the legacy of Askiminokonson Indian Town.
You will also learn about the History, Heritage and Homelands self-guided journey, a collaborative project between the Pocomoke Indian Nation and the Beach to Bay Heritage Area. Tribal historians will be available to share the significance of local sites (Stops 9, 10, and 24b) and discuss the profound impact of colonialism on these Indigenous homelands.