| Chief Jacob E. Thomas was a unique man
who helped start a contemporary Iroquoian cultural
revolution. For more than fifteen years, Jake actively
worked at preserving culture, traditions and ceremonies of the
Iroquois people by using his skills as an artist, craftsman,
and traditional orator. Mr. Thomas was the original Museum Curator for the Woodland
Indian Cultural Educational Centre in 1972. In 1975, Mr.
Thomas was employed by Trent University in Ontario, where he was an
Associate Professor within the Native Studies Department.
Mr. Thomas' work has been featured in numerous books and
periodicals. He has done translations of several Mohawk
manuscripts and selected wampum belts.
Jake did his job well as a Faithkeeper in the
Longhouse. He was also a Confederacy Chief, condoled in
1973. He served his people with knowledge and pride, and
many Six Nations people are richer for his efforts. He will
be missed by many. |
