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Patricia Lerch was hired by the Waccamaw in 1981 to perform the research needed to file for recognition under the Bureau of Indian Affairs Federal Acknowledgement Program of 1978. The Waccamaw began to organize powwows in 1970 to represent publicly their Indian heritage and survival and to spread awareness of their fight for cultural preservation and independence. Lerch found herself understanding that the powwows, in addition to affirming identity, revealed important truths about the history of the Waccamaw and the ways they communicate and coexist. "Waccamaw Legacy outlines Lerchs experience as she played a vital role in the Waccamaw Siouans continuing fight for recognition and acceptance in contemporary society and culture.
"Patricia Lerch brings well-deserved attention to those native Americans that have been largely ignored by most anthropologists and other researchers. These people deserve to be recognized and appreciated for their determination to maintain their cultural heritage. Her insight and sensitivity on this subject are exceptional."--Anne Rogers, Western Carolina University
Patricia Barker Lerch is Professor of Anthropology at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.
About the author
Patricia Barker Lerch is Professor of Anthropology at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.
Summary
Traces the story of the now state-recognized Waccamaw Siouan tribe from its beginnings in the Southeastern United States, through their first contacts with Europeans, and into the 21st century, detailing the struggles these Indians have endured over time.
