Maine Folklife Center Publishes Abnaki Volume

Contact: Media contact: Joe Carr at (207) 581-3571

ORONO — “Katahdin: Wigwam’s Tales of the Abnaki Tribe,” a new volume of tales and legends based on Penobscot traditions, has been published by the Maine Folklife Center at the University of Maine.  The 203-page book was written by the late Mary Alice Nelson, who was born on Indian Island in 1903.  Known during the 20th century by her public entertainer persona “Molly Spotted Elk,” Nelson began working on the book of her writings before World War II.  Nelson’s daughter donated these works to the Maine Folklife Center, where staff edited the stories and created the new book.

“This volume contributes to the efforts of Native leaders in Maine to education the public about their history and culture,” says Pauleena MacDougall, associate director of the center.  “It contributes to that effort by providing a resource for teachers and students.  Additionally, the volume provides the most comprehensive Penobscot language dictionary by a Penobscot author to date.”

The book, with a retail value of $18, can be ordered through the Folklife Center at 5773 South Stevens Hall, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469.  Fax  ((207) 581-1823), telephone ((207) 581-1891) and e-mail orders will be accepted.  The book may also be ordered through the University of Maine Bookstore.