Misty Cook will speak in Alford on Native Medicines: July 12 at 10 AM

Misty will talk about her family history and her research into traditional healing practices

You are cordially invited to a talk by Misty Cook, M.S. of the Stockbridge-Munsee Community. Her presentation will be on Saturday, July 12, at 10 o’clock, in the Alford Town Hall (5 Alford Center Road). There is no charge for the talk — voluntary contributions are welcome. This event has been organized by the Alford Historic District Commission.

No reservation (RSVP) is required, but if you know you are attending I’d appreciate hearing from you. There will be some printed materials handed out. We also want to be sure we have adequate seating.

It will be my pleasure to introduce Misty, and to provide a short description of the tribe’s presence in Alford before the arrival of Europeans.

Misty is the author of the book Medicine Generations in which she has documented dozens of Native American herbal medicines. Copies of her book will be available for purchase.

Misty will talk about her family history, and also about the gathering, drying and preserving of these Medicines. Many of them grow in this area, and some can be found in and around Alford. Misty’s book is a guide for learning about these Medicines and how to use them.

One of my favorites is “Joe Pye Weed” (pictured below), which grows along the roadsides in Alford. Joseph Pye was the English name of Shauquethquot [sha-KWET-ah-kwot]. He was the Sachem of the Stockbridge Indians when my family first came to Stockbridge. If time permits, and Misty does not tell the story, I can say more after her presentation.

From the Alford Historic District Commission:

We are very fortunate to bring you this special presentation and hope you will join us to learn how these Medicines may be used for healing and health maintenance.