Tag Archives: Chumash

Mandalas Through the Looking Glass

I lay simmering in a scalding hot puddle beneath a gurgling pipe, heart fluttering, riding a rocket of euphoria fueled by endorphins, winter’s slanted morning light illuminating Condor National Forest in an apricot radiance. Beads of stinky spring water on … Continue reading

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Chief Matilija’s Poppy

We grew up hearing about Chief Matilija and his group of warriors who tried to fight off the ever-present armies. In the myth, the story goes on to tell of Chief Matilija’s daughter, Amatil, who was very much in love … Continue reading

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Repatriation of Native American Remains and Artifacts

Asperitas clouds over Santa Barbara seen from our home on November 15, 2023. October 2023 Gov. Gavin Newsom signed two laws Tuesday intended to compel California’s public university systems to make progress in their review and return of Native American … Continue reading

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The Mysterious Three Stone Stack

Who? Why? When? The rocks did not fall from the wall or ceiling of the cave that I could tell. There is no trace of a break or fracture in the cave or some such occurrence that may have sent … Continue reading

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Indian Head Test Pattern (1939)

In my years at University of California earning a degree in American history with a minor in Native American studies I never heard tell of the Indian Head Test Pattern. I first learned of it reading Tommy Orange’s novel, There … Continue reading

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