New York State Fair, Syracuse ...Indian Village/Indian Day with Kenneth Thompson

Kenneth Thompson, now 79, has been involved with the NY State Fair for about 32 years. For many years he had driven his mother Katie Thompson (basket maker) to the fairs. She was very actively involved with the State fair for many years also, until her passing just a few years ago on opening day at the fair. Ken also has two brothers, Harvey and a late brother Vincent. It was interesting to find out that each brother chose a different service to join. Kenneth went into the army while nearly the same time his brother Vincent, chose the Marines. Later on, Harvey joined the US Navy. Kenneth mentioned his great nephews, Jeremy, Jerome Jr. and Miles and Lyle Thompson. They are the sons of his nephew Jerome who is also a gifted lacrosse player. These young men really put Native athletes on the map while displaying their talents and skills on the field with Lacrosse in front of the whole world. WE are all so proud of you as well.

Kenneth spoke a lot about his mom and how much she was involved with the fairs. For any chance they were able to, they also went to the Gathering of Nations too. She was not only a very exceptional basket maker, but she was also an officer on the New York State Fair Committee to oversee the Indian Village along with members of the other Six Nations. She performed her duties as a Vice President for her Mohawk people with some others. As time went on, Ken mentioned a time when he drove his mom Katie to Rochester for a meeting about the fair. As he waited for her in another room, a man stepped out of the meeting to get Kenneth to join them. He was surprised and had no idea what was going on. Well, his mom announced that she wished to step down from being VP. They asked Kenneth if he would like to take on the responsibility of filling in the empty spot. He agreed, then it went to a vote. He has been the Vice President since then and represents our people. He does give his work 100% every year when State Fair time rolls around.

His duties are many especially when the 12 days of fair begins. Indian Day is the busiest of all. He finds about 4 extra people to help with parking, admission, and just keeping things organized. Ken and the other members must make sure the booths are filled with their craftspeople, basket makers etc. They walk around to make sure everything is running smoothly and answer questions to people who are trying to learn more. Ken said it has been difficult to find people to work the "cookhouse" to cover duties as needed. There is no charge at the gate for Onkwehonwe and some who are not, still try to get in. Another problem is some people try to bring in bottles of booze, although they have placed signs all around, "no alcohol" allowed. The 4-H building is nearby and the rent for this goes to the Indian Village proceeds. This really helps.

This is the 168th Annual State Fair. In the realization of NY's richness of having members of 7 reservations or nations, they wanted to begin an annual fair to honor Native Americans. This was 89 years ago and a combined effort by the Six Nations Agricultural Society and many members of the founders hailed from each nation across NY. A very important visionary and contributor was Dr. Earl Bates from Cornell University with the late Solomon Cook. Dr. Bates said, "Give the real Americans an American chance in their own America." He wanted to see the Native people be more visible and to have an active role in this endeavor. So, every year at the village is Indian Day. It's always nice to see and meet our relatives from across the state.

Here is a list of present officers to the Six Nations Agricultural Society:

Superintendent: Norman Jimerson

Vice Presidents: Wealthy Bucktooth for Alleghany and Mary Jacobs for Cattaraugus

Sharlene Birchead for Onondaga Ken Thompson for Mohawk

Sandra Snyder for Tonawanda Karen Halbritter for Oneida

Tim Twoguns for Cayuga Judy Judware for Tuscarora

Treasurer: Karenlyn Hill, Onondaga

Permanent Clerk: Clara Hill, Tonawanda

Worker's Council: Sharlene Birchead, Martha Bucktooth, Mary Jacobs

Niawen to all of you for a job well done each year!

Special attractions and demonstrations can be seen every day. The Indian Day is a special one to show the contributions of the farmers and homemakers, to show visitors the continued progress in many areas. The Village was constructed by the Six Nations Agricultural Society along with the Department of Agriculture and Markets, Division of the State Fair, State Department of Education, Social Welfare and Conservation.

All exhibits, dances, food, cultural displays, are shared by the six nations. In 2013, the Village Princess was Alyssa Schmit, a member of the Beaver Clan from Cattauragus Seneca Nation. Some of the criteria for a young lady to be chosen are, a girl who does not use alcohol or drugs, and a girl who intends to continue her education. Each year, the six nations take turns to enter one of their girls into the pageant.

In addition to the schedule, on Indian Day, the famous Smoke Dance competition will be held. This will take place at 3pm and is usually a very exciting time for all participants and onlookers.

Kenneth, your job is a heavy one and I'm sure for you it is a fulfilling one. We know you always give 100% of yourself. Ken said, "As long as they vote me back in, I'll be there...I wouldn't have it any other way." Besides your job at the fair you have been doing an excellent work at your other job in the health field in Ahkwesahsne. Make sure you take care of yourself too, you are very important to us all. Niawen for your time and visit.