Meet Miss Odawa!

The Harbor Springs Area Historical Society has opened a new exhibit – “Miss Odawa: Crowning Traditions” – at the Andrew J. Blackbird Museum, exploring the history of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians’ pageant. 

The selection of a young local woman to represent the Odawa people has taken place in some form since the 1920s. In conjunction with annual Indian naming ceremonies, these early Indian Princess Pageants included competition categories in poise and speaking voice, providing leadership opportunities for young women who sought more involvement in Indian country.

In 1992, The Odawa Homecoming Queen or “Miss Odawa” contest became part of the First Annual Odawa Homecoming Pow Wow held in Harbor Springs at Ottawa Stadium. Selection of a princess and the reintroduction of the pow wow itself highlighted previous generations’ traditions and the historical use of the stadium.

This year’s pow wow, and the crowning of Miss Odawa Nation, will be held August 10-11 at the LTBB Pow Wow Grounds at 7500 Odawa Circle. Open to young women between 13 and 19, judging categories now include demonstrated knowledge of the customs, traditions and history of the Odawa nation through a written essay and interview, as well as a dance exhibition and public speaking.

The “Miss Odawa: Crowning Traditions” exhibit will run through the end of the year at the city-owned Andrew J. Blackbird Museum at 368 E Main Street.  Open year-round, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm., the museum is managed by the Historical Society. Admission is by donation. 

Be sure to stop by on Friday, August 2 when the current Miss Odawa, Mnookmi Massey, will be visiting in her regalia from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm.