Another jewel in Bar Harbor was the Abbe Museum, which "... promotes the understanding and appreciation of Maine's Native American culture, history and archeology." The building housed some very informative and well-designed interpretive displays showcasing samples from their collections, and they hosted many programs that included demonstrations from local craftsman and artisans. Four main Maine federally recognized tribes are collectively grouped under the Wabanaki Confederacy: the Maliseet, Micmac, Penobscot and Passamaquoddy. Of particular note was the amazing basketry with intricate weaving and beading on basketry of which there were many beautiful examples for sale in the museum gift shop, and some very helpful and knowledgeable staff on hand to explain particular aspects of the work. As usual I gravitated to an exhibition with some excellent critter mounts, getting in one sketch of the river otter above, though the community gallery also had a great show up titled "Waponahki" of local Native American student artwork.
"With education will come understanding and with understanding will come respect...." - Donna Loring
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