Celebrate Wampanoag Culture At Cape Cod National Seashore At The Opening Of A Traditional Dwelling
By Kim Falchek|Published May 29, 2023
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Kim Falchek
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Kim Falchek has been exploring the towns, trails, and hidden gems of Massachusetts since her college days in Boston. When not writing, Kim enjoys photography, going on road trips, and spending time at the beach. Kim has previously been a contributing writer for LA Family Travel, Global Munchkins, and Latched Mama. She currently lives in Salem, Massachusetts where she and her family embrace all things Halloween!
If you are visiting Cape Cod on June 3, 2023, there is a community-wide cultural event that you will not want to miss. The town of Truro, the Cape Cod National Seashore, and the Truro Historical Society will be holding a festive celebration in honor of a special collaborative project. The festival will center around the dedication of a wetu, a traditional Wampanoag dwelling.
The Wampanoag were the first inhabitants of the Cape Cod region of Massachusetts. They spent time hunting, farming, and fishing the land which is now part of the Truro Highlands Historical District.
The wetu was created by Wampanoag artist, Annawon Weeden, who is also a performer and Director of the First Light Foundation. The traditional dwelling honors the legacy of the Wampanoag Nation.
The festivities start at 10 a.m. at Truro’s Highland House. The family-friendly event includes cultural demonstrations, native art and crafts, and indigenous games.
The Highland House Museum will be open and free to the public during the celebration. This historic property was once a popular summer resort built in 1907.
The shore offers 40 miles of diverse landscapes, so there is lots to see.
The nearby Highland Lighthouse is also a great spot to visit. This brick structure is known as Cape Cod’s first lighthouse. The tour of the lighthouse is spectacular.