Lacrosse is part of the cultural heritage of the Mohawk community, known as The Creator’s game and healing for men. Today it is a well-recognized team sport with non-indigenous people. This project presents the indigenous origins of lacrosse, not only of the sport but the sticks themselves. Visitors learned how the wooden sticks are designed to become a part of the person who holds them, from the trees carved for the base to the animal skin used for the net, each requiring respect and reverance. The project presents the connection between the sport of lacrosse and the importance of its connection to indigenous neighbors, the environment and to the individuals who practice the sport.
Jack Johnson is a dedicated craftsman of wooden hickory lacrosse sticks and black ash basketry who seeks to bring back indigeneous values by passing the knowledge on to future generations.
Photo credits: Photos by Jill Bornand
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New York State Rural & Traditional Arts Fellowship 