JACKSON, CA- After a successful 2nd Annual Chaw’se Day in late May of this year, the Amador County Park Restoration crews have resumed their efforts to complete the Chaw’se Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park renovation project.
The main focus has shifted to rebuilding the Roundhouse before Big Time in September. Traditionally, the Roundhouse is a place of worship, celebration, dancing, and healing. With resources collected over the winter months, crews are equipped with over 250 cedar poles- each are 37 to 40 feet in length and have all been stripped of their bark by hand- and over 1,400 feet of grapevine to reconstruct the roof. Once all of the poles are placed, the grapevine will be used to secure the poles and add support to the bark. In order to make the grapevine malleable enough for this process, each strip must be rolled, tied, and submerged in water until it is used. After the grapevine is added, the cedar bark taken from the poles will then be laid over the roof.
Adam Dalton, Tribal Chairperson of the Jackson Rancheria Band of Miwuk Indians, stated, “This project is very sacred to our family and to local Natives as well. We are very proud of the progress we’ve made and I am thankful to the many workers and volunteers who helped make this project such a success. I encourage all our neighbors to visit Chaw’se soon and see the amazing transformation for yourselves. May Grandfather be with you all.”
There’s still plenty to do in the park, including the entryway to the Roundhouse, more split rail fencing, rebuilding the shaded seating area and traditional bark houses near the environmental camp, and maintaining the campground. Volunteers are welcome every Tuesday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. All workers will be supplied with gloves, tools, a hot lunch, and a complimentary t-shirt for their help. Donations are also appreciated. Please call 209-223-8405 for more information on how you can get involved.
Located in the Sierra foothills town of Jackson, CA, Jackson Rancheria Casino & Hotel is owned by the Jackson Rancheria Band of Miwuk Indians, a federally recognized Indian tribe. A sovereign government, the Rancheria is dedicated to developing projects that not only enhance the tribe’s ability to remain self-reliant, but also reflect a commitment to be a good neighbor.
