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Contemporary Tlingit and Haida Ceremonies While many museum visitors are fascinated by the
displays of early Native artifacts, objects representing the lives of
contemporary Alaska Natives are also displayed. These artifacts represent
the 20th century practice by the Tlingit and Haida of an
ancient ceremony popularly called the "potlatch." The host of a potlatch
treats guests to lavish meals and presents, which are considered a payment
for services and for being witness to important ceremonial proceedings,
such as the giving of names, adoptions, and introducing new regalia. A
wide variety of presents are given, including food, towels, dishes,
blankets, and toys. These gifts were distributed at a Tlingit potlatch in
1995. |
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Web Posted March 2005 |
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