| Native American exhibit travels to Latzer
Hall Display teaches history of Illinois tribes
A common misconception regarding the Illini Native Americans is that Illini is a term for one tribe of Native Americans. However, the Illini was a confederation of people who lived in the region of Illinois. More information like this concerning Native Americans can be found at a display entitled "Native Peoples of Illinois." Displayed in Latzer Hall at the University YMCA, 1001 S. Wright St., the exhibit presents a simple history of Native American tribes who originated in Illinois. It will be displayed in Champaign until the end of October, when it will move to Bradley University. The exhibit, created at Aurora University, contains reproductions of lithographs of ancient Native American artifacts. The lithographs, published in the 1800s, were made available from private collectors, museums, universities and historical societies. Many original pieces of elaborate beadwork and clothing made out of animal skins are some of the pieces shown in Latzer Hall. Copies of original paintings of great Native Americans and chiefs like Waubaunsee, a Pottawatomie chief, are also displayed. Illustrations of different parts of Native American life are explained, giving examples of how Native Americans farmed, hunted and gathered their food. Weapons and headdresses are featured along with traditions of Native American war and everyday life. Brief histories of tribes are also told. A few illustrations expose common myths of Native Americans, such as where their tribal names originated. Many believe Native Americans gave themselves the names they are now recognized by, but the exhibit shows alternative reasons for their names. "I think it's good that the display explains the term Illini but the rest of the exhibit doesn't seem to diversify the tribes very well. All the tribes seemed lumped together," said Katharine Appuhn, sophomore in LAS. "It is interesting but doesn't seem focused." Steve Shoemaker, director of the University YMCA, said he believes the display is interesting to show to students at the University, because of the Chief Illiniwek controversy. The display is independent from the University and is meant to educate students on facts about early Native Americans. "The exhibit of Native Americans artifacts is a neutral one," Shoemaker said. "It gives the facts — what scientists, archeologist and historians know about the Native Americans." |
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