Defenders of the Nansemond River

Although we had to cancel our pow wow this year, we are excited to offer a small piece of our annual tradition through a new shirt. The design features four Nansemond chiefs who defended Nansemond River settlements in the early 1600s. At the time, the riverfront was home to more than 1,200 Nansemond people with some of the most fertile land in the region. Nansemond Ridge was thought to be one of the largest oyster beds worldwide, and local streams and creeks teemed with life.

Today, Nansemond River communities struggle with the effects of centuries of pollution and shellfish harvesting—once central to Nansemond survival—is now largely condemned to protect public health. Through this time of social distance, we invite our family and friends to join us in extending our concern for health to our land, water, and wildlife. 100% of the funds raised through these shirt sales will go toward tribal initiatives to protect the Nansemond River and partnerships with community organizations with the same mission.

Kenah ((Thank you)) for your support!