Change in Jefferson Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Presentation – November 8

Change in Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Presentation – November 8

Mike Tarbell was scheduled to speak to the Jefferson Historical Society on Sunday, November 8. Unfortunately, due to medical reasons, he is unable to give his presentation. However, we will still offer a program exploring Haudenosaunee history and traditions, featuring two knowledgeable and experienced educators, Bonnie Dailey and Vic DiSanto.

Bonnie Dailey will present a biographical account of Molly Brant, the older sister of Mohawk leader Joseph Brant and the longtime partner of Sir William Johnson, the British Superintendent of Indian Affairs. Molly Brant played an important role in relations between the Haudenosaunee and the British during the American Revolution.

Vic DiSanto will share traditional Haudenosaunee stories, including Skywoman, Flint and Sapling, the Peacemaker, and How the Bear Clan Became Healers. These stories offer insights into Haudenosaunee beliefs, traditions, and cultural heritage.

Both presenters bring extensive backgrounds in education and historical research.

Vic DiSanto is a Museum Associate at the Iroquois Museum in Howes Cave. He previously worked as a Historic Preservation Program Analyst for New York State and served with the Bureau of Museum Education and Visitor Services at the New York State Museum in Albany. Vic holds bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in American History and has written extensively in the field.

Bonnie Dailey is a genealogist at the Old Stone Fort Museum, where she conducts historical research. She also serves as the Jefferson Town Historian and has extensive volunteer experience with the Smithsonian Institution. Bonnie has conducted considerable research on Revolutionary War veterans who settled in Jefferson. Her work recently contributed to the Jefferson Historical Society's Voices from the Cemetery program, which brought to life the stories of Revolutionary War veterans buried in the Old Jefferson Burying Ground.

The program will take place on Sunday, November 8, at 2:00 p.m. at Judd Hall, 163 Main Street, Jefferson.

The event is free and open to the public. We hope you will join us for an interesting afternoon exploring Haudenosaunee history, storytelling, and traditions.