by the Leelanau Historical Society
In recognition of Indigenous People’s Day the Leelanau Historical Society launched an addition to their permanent exhibit The Katherine Hall Wheeler, Traditional Anishinaabek Arts Room. The virtual exhibit and video component features Anishinaabek basket makers of Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula.
In 1987, the Leelanau Historical Society began documenting, interpreting, collecting, and preserving birch bark and quillwork baskets and black ash baskets. In 2005, the museum built a unique conservation grade exhibit space in which much of this collection is continually on display.
The addition of this virtual exhibit honors the human story behind these works of art. The Leelanau Historical Society collaborated with Laura Quackenbush, the original curator of the Traditional Anishinaabek Arts Collection. It is with great respect that Laura worked closely with Peshawbestown Elders, Hank Bailey and Linda Woods, in order to share their wisdom.
Video produced by Brauer Productions. This project was made possible thanks to the support of basket room patrons, Katherine Hall Wheeler’s children: Janie Markham, Gil Wheeler, Katherine Vestal.