Historical Society welcomes American Indian scholar

Back by popular demand, once again Dr. Stanley Knick was the guest speaker for The Topsail Island Historical Society luncheon.  Dr. Knick, Rhoads Scholar and Director of The Native American Resource Center at UNC Pembroke presented a broad overview of Native American Indian tribes. Last year he delighted the audience with his presentation on the Lumbee Indian Tribe, of which he became an honorary member in 1996. This year, he could only scratch the surface of the contemporary issues facing American Indian Tribes today, including their cultural and historical perspective, cultural diversity, stereotypes, state and federal government regulation, religious freedom, health and substance abuse, sovereignty and judicial independence. These issues are interwoven and have grown out of the long and often bitter history of contact between Native Americans and the newer Americans.

For those interested in learning more about Native American Indian Tribes, visit the Native American Resource Center located in Pembroke, North Carolina. The museum contains many collections, exhibits, publications, news, events and resources regarding the various American Indian Tribes.

Members and guests enjoyed the luncheon catered by the Home Port Restaurant.

For more information about The Missiles and More Museum, contact Rose Peters, Director, at (910) 328-2488.

The Topsail Island Historical Society welcomes new members. For more information, contact www.topsailislandhistoricalsociety.org.

The next meeting will be held February 11, 2010 at 11:30 a.m.