We had a milestone this summer. Tillicum Village is 50! Here’s a little back story:
Tillicum Village was created 50 years ago by Bill Hewitt for the World’s Fair. Bill wanted to build an attraction to celebrate the culture of Northwest Coast Native Americans — from their salmon to their art to their legends. He chose the name “Tillicum,” a word from Chinook jargon meaning friend or friendly.
In 2009 Argosy Cruises had the opportunity to acquire Tillicum Village, and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to further showcase the food, art, and history of the Coast Salish people, making it a living tribute to our region’s heritage.
At Tillicum Village, the stories are told by Roger Fernandes. The dances and songs are used with the permission of the Native American families to whom they belong, in some cases the families of our Native American performers themselves. And we worked closely with members of the Suquamish tribe and others to create an experience that brings native culture out of the museum and into the modern day, where it is still alive and vibrant.
50 years this summer was an excellent opportunity to celebrate keeping the culture alive with a party on Pier 55. Here are a few pictures to include you in the festivities.
Roger Fernandes, the native storyteller featured in the Tillicum Village show, gave a cultural message. He also told a story about the Clam People, and sang a beautiful song.
The Dancers performed on the Pier
Performing on Pier 55 for the first time in Tillicum Village history
The dancers and Roger Fernandes
Anniversary cupcakes guarded by a foreboding mask from Tillicum
