Preserving Our Heritage: The Art Of Mishoon Burning

Traditionally, the Nipmuc/k lived in small, seasonal villages, hunting, fishing, and cultivating the “three sisters”; corn, beans and squash.  Our culture is rich with traditions, from storytelling and music to crafting intricate beadwork, basket weaving. Lake Quinsigamond has always been a vital part of our heritage, serving as a hub for travel, trade, and sustenance. The mishoon, or dugout canoe, was a crucial element in our daily life, enabling us to navigate these waters efficiently.