Each year, the Indian Village at the well-attended, multi-day New York State Fair offers fairgoers rare glimpses into the rich customs and traditions of the Haudenosaunee people, representing the Oneida, Onondaga, Seneca, Mohawk, Cayuga and Tuscarora Nations. Oh yes, they were always considered Nations — the politically correct term — as they existed even before the landing of Christopher Columbus!

As a matter of fact, together with my traveling buddies, we unanimously voted this often-visited corner of the much-anticipated State Fair one of our favorites, as it allowed us to immerse into the authentic roots of the indigenous peoples of America.

With a distinct aroma of sage, this vibrant piece of sacred land honors their legendary history and heritage, coupled with their storied arts and culture, plus their enduring contributions to the region.

But first, historical backgrounder.

The Indian Village, established in 1928, was not originally part of the State Fair. Its origins trace back to the early 20th century when so-called Wild West Shows captivated American audiences. These expositions, often organized by non-Indigenous individuals, sadly spotlighted Native performers reenacting skits purely for economic survival – they were for entertainment, and not for appreciation and education! In contrast, Haudenosaunee leaders sought to create an area where they could share their own unheard stories and preserve their birthright.

And, thus, Chief William Rockwell of the Oneida Nation began to host the Iroquois Indian Primitive Industrial Exposition in 1923. It attracted thousands of visitors to Oneida City each year. By 1928, the exposition aligned with the groundbreaking of the Indian Village at the fairgrounds, led by Cornell professor Earl A. Bates and Chief Jesse Lyons of the Onondaga. Since then, the village has become a cornerstone of the Haudenosaunee community and the State Fair.