Malden Historical Society presents ‘History of the Massachusett Tribe’

As the City of Malden celebrates the 375^th anniversary of the Town’s 1649 founding, we should remember that native people were living in the area long before European settlers arrived. On Tuesday, May 7, the Malden Historical Society will hold its annual meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the Maccario Room of the Malden Public Library (36 Salem St.). After a brief business meeting, guest speaker Thomas (Spirit Tree) Green will present a talk on “The History of the Massachusett Tribe.” Covering territory from Cape Ann to Cape Cod, his talk will explore the history of the region’s native people before, during and after their encounters with European settlers. You might hear familiar names like Nanepashemet and some that are less familiar. Come prepared to learn something new and bring your questions! Following the talk there will be time to socialize and enjoy refreshments.

Thomas “Spirit Tree” Green is a descendant of the Neponset band of Massachusett who gathered at the praying town of Ponkapoag. He is the Massachuset-Ponkapoag Tribal Council Inc. Board of Directors Vice President and Chair of the Tribe’s History Preservation Committee. A specialist in the indigenous history of Massachusetts, Green serves as an indigenous steward, educator, consultant and cultural interpreter. He is also an indigenous artist focused on quahog shell and seed-bead jewelry as well as traditional indigenous regalia.

Founded in 1886 and incorporated in 1887, the Malden Historical Society is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that is always looking for new members as well as volunteers to help with its collections, exhibits and other projects. Anyone with an interest in history who wants to learn more can attend one of their meetings or visit www.maldenhistoricalsociety.org.