This story summarizes Casey Palmer-McGee’s ArcGIS StoryMaps story, Samish 13 Moons. It was our competition’s first-place winner. See the visual story here.
From the serene landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, the Samish Indian Nation’s calendar, marked by 13 moons, stands as a testament to a profound bond with nature. This lunar guide diverges significantly from the Gregorian calendar; it is deeply rooted in the environment’s rhythms, reflecting a lifestyle in sync with Earth’s natural cycles. This ancient wisdom, embedded in the Samish culture, offers insights into sustainable living and the interconnectedness of all life.
Indigenous calendars, including the Samish 13-moon calendar, prioritize lunar cycles and seasonal changes over solar dates. Each moon phase signifies specific activities, such as resource gathering and ceremonial practices, essential for the community’s well-being. This system contrasts with Western calendars, offering a deeper connection to nature’s ebb and flow.
The year begins with the Chents’ólheng season (winter), when the community focuses on indoor crafts, storytelling, and spiritual renewal. The transition through the moons marks a time for preparation and reflection, leading to the Chenqw’íles season (spring) of growth and renewal. During this period, the Samish people engage in traditional harvesting, fishing, and observing nature’s rebirth.
Summer, or the Chenkw’á7les season, is a celebration of abundance characterized by communal gatherings, cultural festivals, and the revered canoe journey. This is a vibrant time of sharing, learning, and honoring the deep roots of Samish heritage.
Autumn brings the Píxwel season, focused on salmon harvesting and preparation for the winter months. This crucial period ensures the community’s sustenance and is marked by hunting, gathering, and canoe mending, guided by the moons’ wisdom.
The oral traditions of the Samish passed down through the generations, are vital for the continuity of the community’s deep connection to the land and sea. Elders’ stories are not merely tales but lessons in respect, balance, and gratitude, teaching the younger generations their responsibilities to their ancestors and the natural world.
Art and storytelling vividly bring the 13 moons of the Samish lunar calendar to life. Anabel Baker’s illustrations and Casey Palmer-McGee’s ArcGIS StoryMaps story encapsulate the beauty of Samish traditions. The community shares songs and stories that celebrate a rich cultural tapestry, preserving the Samish legacy for future generations.
The Samish lunar calendar guides ecological harmony, emphasizing the importance of respectfully observing and responding to nature. This indigenous wisdom, focusing on the moon and seasonal cycles, provides valuable lessons for sustainable living and urges a deeper connection with our environment.
The Samish 13 Moons project shares a calendar and a holistic approach to living, deeply woven into the fabric of the Samish people’s daily lives. It is a beacon of cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, and community solidarity. As the world grapples with ecological challenges, the timeless wisdom behind Samish 13 Moons offers a pathway toward a more sustainable and interconnected existence, reminding us of the enduring bond between humanity and the natural world.
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