Land, Legacy and Freedom: Native American Strength Shapes A Nation

The Leverton Hubbard Foundation in partnership with the Caroline County Historical Society will host Land, Legacy and Freedom: Native American Strength Shapes a Nation, at historic Linchester Mill Campus in Preston, Maryland, featuring local tribal communities, The Nause-Waiwash Band of Indians and The Pocomoke Indian Nation, whose histories are deeply rooted in Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
This day-long educational and cultural program will explore the 18th century with special emphasis on the era surrounding 1776 and the meaning of independence. The Native American communities will share their traditions, and perspectives through presentations, traditional dance, drumming, music, artifact exhibitions, guided historical walks, and immersive demonstrations of traditional life skills. All ages will have the opportunity to watch, touch and participate. Highlights include native flute, hide tanning using stone and bone tools, traditional turkey hunting techniques, cattail decoys, flintknapping, and use of native plants. Guests, exhibitors, and volunteers are encouraged to wear historical clothing to enhance the immersive experience.
Tribal presentations and cultural demonstrations will address thought-provoking questions such as:
• Was July 4, 1776, a day of celebration for Native Americans?
• Did local tribes fight in the Revolutionary War — and if so, on which side?
• Did tribes remain, relocate, or adapt during this era of political upheaval?
• What was life like on the Eastern Shore in the 1700s?
The Historic Linchester Mill Campus, including the Mill Pond Trail, Leverton Manor, and the Hog Island one-room schoolhouse, provides a meaningful setting for reflection and learning. Activities and demonstrations will take place simultaneously throughout the campus.
Thank you to our generous sponsors: The Preston Automotive Group, Shore United Bank, Maryland Humanities, The Caroline County Council of Arts, Choptank Electric Trust, The Maryland 250 Commission, and The Caroline County 250 Commission. This project has been financed in part with State funds from the Maryland Historical Trust, an agency in the MD Department of Planning.