The Tolowa Nee-dash Society
The Tolowa Dee-ni’ People have lived in Del Norte since recorded time. In 1853, an attack by settlers, was documented as the second single largest massacre of Native peoples in the history of the United States. The ensuing carnage caused a near extinction of people and their practices. It was not until the 1960s, with steady commitment to tutelage by elders, which included dance protocols, singing and language instruction, that Nee-dash ceremonies resumed as public events. The dance grounds were established, housing a gathering space for the tribe.
A 2017 Living Cultures award will provide funds to replace the Dance House roof at Nii-lii-chv-dvn located on the South Bank of the Smith River. Tolowa Dee-nii ceremonies and cultural gathering resumed there in 1976 where ceremonies, weddings, Flower Dances, singing sessions, storytelling, regalia making and other cultural sharing events take place.
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