Earl Otchingwanigan Speaks

It is with great pleasure to introduce to you Earl Otchingwanigan, Ojibwe elder and master canoe-maker. These spoken words were recently heard in the presence of this 100+ year-old restored birch bark canoe.

http://vimeo.com/51366197

For the documentation of the conservation & restoration please visit<> http://beaverbarkcanoes.wordpress.com/chippewa-canoe-restoration/

 

It is profoundly reassuring to know there are people around who understand the significance of these canoes-- not simply the historical significance but the spiritual as well. You were the perfect person for the restoration of this relic, Ferdy, because you not only have the talent, you respect everything concerned with the building of these canoes.

I was honored to meet Earl a year or so ago. What a gift it is to learn from someone who holds so many important memories. The Japanese designate such persons "Living National Treasures" because they are "Preservers of Important Intangible Cultural Properties". I see you in that category as well, Ferd.

Kathy