appreciation for Native American culture was very impressive. He truly made this an exceptional experience.
Leaving on Argosy cruise vessel Good Time II we immediately learned a key feature of Elliott Bay (the body of water immediately below Seattle) and of the Puget Sound (adjacent to and west of Elliott Bay.) They have two exceptionally high "high tides" and two exceptionally low "low tides" each day!! (??) That contributes directly to both their amazing richness and their unusual coldness. We also learned much about the original settlers of the area and of the events that shaped the development of Washington state. Oh, one of the things I learned was that a "Seahawk" (as in the Seattle football team) is actually what we know as an Osprey back home!!!
As far as the residents go, I'm not going to even attempt to unravel the convoluted name usages found in this area. There are scores of tribes and many have multiple spellings and even more pronunciations. It is generally agreed, though, that Chief Seattle was of the Suquamish tribe (although it is also felt that he was affiliated with the Duamish people as well.) Regardless, Seattle was one of the most brilliant statesmen, teachers and leaders - of any race - in the 19th century.
His understanding of the inter-connectedness of all parts of the ecology of the area was remarkable and his burning desire to see all humans live together in harmony was so compelling that it led to relationships between the European settlers and the indigenous people that were unique. He really deserves our respect and appreciation.
Upon our arrival at Tillicum Village we were greeted with wonderfully tasty cups of steamed clams in hot broth. We proceeded through the main Lodge filled with Native American art and craft displays - and smoldering cedar fires where beautiful Salmon fillets were smoking - to the main hall where our meal would be served.
The enormous hall, constructed mainly of huge spruce, pine and cedar timbers was really beautiful, seating well over three hundred, with an expansive stage at the eastern end. Our meal consisted of outstanding salads, wild rice, bison, elk, venison and beef stew, fresh fruits of all kinds, steamed vegetables and, of course, that excellent Sockeye Salmon steak topped off with a small, individual apple pie.
Following what could only be described as a "feast" we were introduced to a troupe of very attractive young Native Americans who would be performing for us.
I really can't recap all the performances we saw because it would take far too long but I can tell you that the authentic costumes were beautiful, the performances flawless and the audio-visual effects very impressive. It's something you really want to make time for if you're visiting the area for several days.
Following the meal and the show we had the opportunity to visit the various shops, gardens, trails and beaches associated with the facility. We had a "walking lecture" on Totem Pole art and had the chance to chat with some of the performers. It was a great excursion and I haven't touched on a fraction of all the stuff we learned.
Please take time to learn more about Chief Seattle, about George Smith Blake for whom thie island was originally named, about William Pitt Tremble who developed the island as his home and about the fascinating events leading up to the 1962 World's Fair that resulted in the wonderful facility and learning center that exists today. But, all too soon Captain Lindsey blew the ship's mighty whistle and we re-embarked for the eastward voyage back to Seattle. I reall wish I could have covered more stuff for you but hopefully this will whet your appetite. We'll be back soon with more from Seattle. Tomorrow, the christening!!! See ya.
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