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.
We stepped into the zone and were quickly greeted by a grove of trees, which exuded an aura of tranquility – a stark contrast to the bustling fair’s midway.
Our first stop was the Six Nations Agricultural Building, which showcased the Three Sisters — corn, beans, and squash. These three crops were central to their agriculture. In particular, the exhibit spotlighted heirloom seeds passed down through generations and vibrant corn varieties.
We likewise observed lacrosse -- a contact sport involving sticks and one ball. The Haudenosaunee were the original inventors of the game. Some members encouraged guests to test their mettle in a shooting cage. Just beside it, an archery range offered another opportunity to connect with their legacy.
Another popular spot was the Iroquois Soup House, where meals were served throughout the day — from filling breakfasts to extravagant dinners! Signature dishes included Corn Soup and Frybread — a thick, doughy treat served warm in a paper bag.
We had the opportunity to inspect the Birch Bark Canoe up close. This was the primary form of water transport of old, and was eventually adopted for fur trade in Canada. It later on became a recreational vehicle.
Meanwhile, we marveled at the Ceremonial Pipe, the central revered object used in prayers or religious ceremonies. This specific one was donated by then-New York State Governor — the 32nd US President — Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was considered a blood brother. Of great interest was a replica Century Longhouse, a traditional dwelling made of saplings, which contained mementos of their ancestors inside and remained partly unfinished to provide a peek into its architecture.
Finally, a monument of what resembled a corn cob was dedicated to the Three Sisters farming practice, which we earlier witnessed during the day.
We eventually relaxed before the Turtle Mound Stage, where the constituents performed traditional Haudenosaunee dances, and others that celebrate friendship, sustenance, community, and life. Movements share narratives, offering insights into their rhythms and symbolisms.
As a final stop, we made our way to a lane of local vendors — artisans all. Their specialties included colorful corn husks, ribbon skirts, dolls, wood carvings, medicine pouches, and intricate beaded jewelry. They even had natural ointments and salves entrenched in long-established healing practices.
The Indian Village was an eye-opener to the beginnings of America’s indigenous peoples. And today, they themselves are the ones sharing their stories with the world.