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Cultural Connections in the Park: Basketmaking Demonstration with Fred Tomah, Maliseet

Fred Tomah is one of the only Maliseet basketmakers in Maine. A Master Basketmaker, he has been making brown ash baskets for nearly 35 years. He was taught by his ancestors, who learned it from their ancestors. Join Fred as he gives a basketry demonstration and discusses the steps within his basketmaking process.

Fred is an expert at finding and preparing the ash tree for weaving and carries on a tradition of excellence in basket style and technique. He is an accomplished maker of all types of work baskets but is best known for his tightly woven Katahdin basket series in the “cat’s head” style. His Katahdin Arctic Butterfly Basket is featured in the Smithsonian. True to his tribal tradition, Fred weaves a small intentional “mistake” into each basket because “only the Creator makes perfect baskets.” Often weaving contrasting colors into his work, many of his baskets seem to bridge the gap between fancy and utility work making beautifully decorative baskets that are also strong and functional.

Location: Wigwam at the Sieur de Monts Lawn, Acadia National Park

Have a question? Contact us at educator@abbemuseum.org.

All Cultural Connections in the Park programs are sponsored by Dawnland, LLC, are offered in partnership with Acadia National Park, and are free and open to the public.

The Cultural Connections in the Park series occurs every Wednesday from late June through August. 

Later Event: August 16
Story & Activity Hour