Always something new

Working at my job has introduced me to new ways of thinking.  It has been very eye opening working for the Seminole Tribe, learning their heritage and their way of life.  Its so interesting to look at the 1,000 year old objects in the collections and then walk outside and see how everything has evolved into the present day.

Like many tribes, the Seminole's are very private about certain stories and cultural rituals.  Why they do things may not always be clear to us. Even the different clans may omit certain things from stories so others won't hear.

One of the most unique things I have learned is how the tribe deals with removing cultural resources from the ground.  When the objects are excavated they are brought back to the lab.  But before they can be accessioned they have to go into the Isolation room.  This room serves two purposes.  The first is pest management.  The second is so that medicine can be done.  Our cultural advisor will go in and carry out certain cultural activities and then I am allowed to remove the objects.  After he leaves, the room smells like sage.

This would most likely be an unorthodox practice in other museums.  But to the Tribe it is essential.  Their beliefs and their culture trump my collection management training.  My thoughts of, "Maybe we shouldn't be burning things near the collection" will always be just a fleeting thought. 

I work for a sovereign nation, one that is known as the unconquered ones.  I get to work for a culture that still has pride and love for their heritage and rituals. To incorporate the old and the new is fascinating.  Besides, who doesn't love a little mystery in the work place.