The Ripe Corn Ceremony
was held in late September. It was the only ancient ceremony that survived
into the 20th century. It celebrated the maturing of the corn crop and was
held outdoors in the square ground. In the center of the ground a leafy tree
was set. The celebration lasted four days and was also marked by feasting.
During the ceremony a special dance was performed by the Chief’s right-hand
man, as he danced he carried a green bough. A man’s dance was also performed
in which each man carried a green bough. While it was taking place women
were excluded from the square.
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Green Corn Dance Ceremony