Today we really hit the jackpot! Daddy Mac had mentioned a neat ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion the day before Thanksgiving. After a quick Google search, we were off with me wondering if we were on a wild goose (or is it turkey?) chase. Wow!!! We had the most incredible time at Governor’s Executive Mansion, being part of history — really!
Did you know that there is a peace treaty known as the “Tax Tribute” dating all the way back to the late 1600s (1677 to be exact) between Virginia and the Commonwealth’s Native Americans? Well, it is still in effect. This Tax Tribute Ceremony has been going on EVERY YEAR since then on the day before Thanksgiving — over three centuries, people, 331 years. Lo and behold when we huffed and puffed up the hill, an amazing scene awaited us.
There were tons of Indians of several generations in traditional dress and Governor Kaine right in front of us with a small crowd of only about 200 people. There was no way to overlook the two freshly killed bucks and turkey offered by the Mattaponi and Pamunkey Indian chiefs. This is their “tribute” in lieu of paying taxes for their respective reservations. (Hey, where do I sign up for that deal — wild game instead of taxes or rent? OK, I needed to be here way before the Pilgrims. Never mind.)
The ceremony ended with some of the Native American women dancing to one of their beating drums. Then we were all welcomed (really!) to tours of the Executive Mansion, which was absolutely exquisite. Let’s keep this excursion our little secret so we won’t need to be in grandstands next year to watch!
LibbY
Very cool! We may have to hike it on up to Richmond for Thanksgiving next year so we can check that out. Of course, you’ve got to make that cornbread and sausage gravy. Hope you had a good one.