Liberation Summit Rapid City Nov. 6-8
Native Voices of Loudoun County Virginia: Past and Present Exhibit Now until Nov. 24, 2024
Location: The Plaster Museum of Bluemont Heritage is located in the E.E. Lake Store at 18351 Railroad Street, Bluemont, VA 20135.
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Upcoming Events:
Nov. 4 Bluemont Community Fall Potluck kicking off the Native Voices exhibit and November "National Native American Heritage Month" at the E.E. Lake Store. The exhibit ends Nov. 24. Nov. 6-8 Food Sovereignty presentation at the 2024 Liberation Summit, Ramkota Hotel in the He Sapa, homelands of the Oceti Sakowin, sometimes referred to as Rapid City, SD Nov. 14 at 7:00 pm "We Are Still Here," 2024 Native American Cultural Celebration at University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, Va. Nov. 16 at 1:00 pm "Amplifying Indigenous Women's Voices: Native American Slavery and Freedom in Loudoun County" Date TBD Unveiling of Indigenous Roadside Signs in Frederick County, Va. Nov. 24 last tours for the Native Voices of Loudoun exhibit. 
Maasaw presented to 35 visitors on Aug. 11 during the special museum guided tour.
Discover the rich legacy of the Indigenous Peoples of Loudoun County, Virginia and celebrate the enduring presence of Native American communities in the region's past and present.
Regular Exhibit Dates Open Sundays (only), from 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. from May to Nov. 24, 2024.
Parking is available at the nearby Bluemont Post Office and Community Center.
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Patrick Brooks (Tuscaroa) giving a tour during the July 27, 2024 mini-sunset gathering. More than 80 people attended the outside event and close to 50 toured the exhibit inside that evening.
Why Attend? Join us for this year’s enlightening exhibit, dedicated to celebrating the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous, Native American communities here – then and now. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to learn, reflect, and honor the rich heritage of the first stewards of this land.
Location The Plaster Museum of Bluemont Heritage is located in the E.E. Lake Store at 18351 Railroad Street, Bluemont, VA 20135.
Admission FREE to the general public. Handicap accessible. Pet friendly. Website https://bluemontheritage.org Updated occasionally. Keep checking back for updates. Partner https://harvestgathering.org/index.html hosted by Sanctuary on the Trail co-founders, helped advise and create this year’s Native American exhibit in Bluemont. Volunteer https://bluemontheritage.org/contact Helps strengthen our communities by fostering connections. Happening in Bluemonthttps://www.visitloudoun.org/towns-and-places/bluemont/
Bluemont is a charming town with a rich history. Activities include: The Plaster Museum, farmer’s market, wineries, breweries, live music, Bluemont Annual Fair (3rd weekend in September), hiking trails, Bear’s Den, military veteran retreat (Boulder Crest Retreat), Victorian homes, general stores, nearby bed & breakfast inns, and more. 
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Exhibit Highlights 
Bluemont, Virgnia jingle dress dancer Valley Dawn White stands in front of a red dress display to spread awareness to a crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women and children (MMIWC).
Historical Artifacts Explore rare and authentic artifacts that provide a window into the daily lives, traditions, and history of Indigenous peoples here.
Interactive Displays Engage with educational displays designed to deepen your understanding of Indigenous cultures through interactive elements. Activities for Kids Southeastern Woodland Indian designs are available for children to color and take home. Art and Craft Discover traditional and contemporary Indigenous art forms, including pottery, weaving, and beadwork, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship passed down through generations. Storytelling Sessions Attend scheduled storytelling sessions, where you can listen to Indigenous elders share; see the calendar for future events. Indigenous Authors Look up and around the rooms for recommended indigenous books written by Native Americans; see QR codes for reading lists. Self-Determination and Tribal Sovereignty Read about how Indigenous People are still here and reversing manifest destiny. Wild Foods Learn about Indigenous foodways and reconnect with the wild edibles of Loudoun County. Lay Down Prayers A prayer-tie corner, offers a sacred space where visitors are invited to honor Native American traditions by laying down their prayers and intentions through prayer ties. We Are Still Here Learn how this statement is a reminder that our Indigenous communities have endured and continue to exist, despite historical injustices and challenges. 
Northern Virginia resident, Native American Jason Warwick (Lumbee) demonstrating a traditional dance during a previous Bluemont Fair event. A wigwam demonstration is seen the background.
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Why This Exhibit MattersWe, as ethical compassionate citizens, value our collective diversity today as we celebrate a vibrant and respectful future for all peoples together. Understanding and appreciating our Indigenous cultures is vital to recognizing the diverse fabric of our democracy and land that we all call home. This exhibit not only educates but also fosters a sense of respect and admiration for the contributions and experiences of Indigenous peoples past and present. By attending, you also support cultural preservation and help promote awareness and inclusivity.
Bluemont resident, Chris (Comeswithclouds) White (Cherokee) praying with children and adults during a past Bluemont Fair. Smoke from the sacred tobacco helps send our prayers up to Creator. (Photo by Chris Anderson (Cherokee))
Join UsBe a part of this significant event and journey through the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous communities. Whether you are a history enthusiast, student, teacher, or someone eager to know more, there's something for everyone.
HelpYour support to these educational and cultural experiences is appreciated.
Pay Pal
or Mail Checks or Money Orders to: Sanctuary on the Trail at P.O. Box 123 Bluemont VA 20135.
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Past EventSept. 16-17, 2023
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"We encouraged people to come breathe in the fresh mountain air, have fun learning new things that you didn’t know that you didn’t know about our Native American Indian music during Bluemont’s 53rd annual fair,” added René.
Sponsored by the Sanctuary on the Trail in partnership with Stillwaters, "Building Community and Creating 'Peace' Through Music." 
In Memory
We miss you! Honoring our dear friend and avid volunteer Tom Clark. You are in our thoughts and prayers forever.
In Memory
Honoring our volunteer who have passed over: Military Veteran and nature archaeologist Cletus Black (right). Beloved Trina (left) our hearts are always with you as we remember Cleet.
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In Memory
In memory of Emilee Jefferies (right), head dancer at The Gathering 2017 and Indian Village fundraiser volunteer. You touched our lives and we are changed because of you.
In Memory
In memory of Liz Ortiz, The Gathering and Village volunteer. You are missed.
In Memory
In memory of Indian Village Cherokee volunteer Don Warden from Williamsburg Va. who passed July 22, 2022. He passed shortly after his mother passed.
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VISION:
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Sanctuary on the Trail 501(c)3 Non-profit
The "Indian Village" grew from seed planted from "The Gathering" which grew as an experiment in humanity.
#NewTribeRising
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The Indian Village and The Gathering were hosted by the non-profit and federally recognized Sanctuary on the Trail™ Native American Church of Virginia Small, Women-Owned, Disabled Military Veteran, Native American Indian Owned Business |