In the s, the government attempted to ban Native dancing on reservations and in tribal communities. Many ministers and missionaries, federal agents, philanthropists, and others believed that traditional dance prevented the assimilation of Native Americans into American culture. The railroads especially the Santa Fe with the Fred Harvey Company tapped into the promotion of Indigenous culture as a means of building railroad-based tourism with Native crafts, dances and more.
In the end, the popularity of the dances overwhelmed the reformist movements and federal management. Dances became the staple of many state and county fairs in the s and s. Flagstaff merchants invited American Indians to partake in games, races and dances in exchange for free food. As the powwow grew, it moved west to the Thorpe Park area at the end of Birch Street.
Moore, K. Webber, and M. Pilkington formed Celebrations, Inc. They changed the name to Pow-Wow, Inc. By , the powwow included a carnival, with booths for selling Native art and crafts.
Virtually everyone in Flagstaff and neighboring Native Nations attended and enjoyed the powwow at some time. Introduction Early years Recollections Language Final years. Skip Navigation. Introduction History Stories Credits. Early years of the Pow Wow In the s, the government attempted to ban Native dancing on reservations and in tribal communities.
