Milwaukee’s Indian Summer Festival (Part 1)In September 1987, Milwaukee introduced its newest

Milwaukee’s Indian Summer Festival (Part 1)

In September 1987, Milwaukee introduced its newest ethnic festival, Indian Summer. It included food, handcrafts, cultural displays, stage performances, competition pow-wow, a children’s area and more. The purpose of such a festival was to present the general public with a representative image of native peoples nationwide. 

Per the organizers:

“We feel that the positive images received by the people attending a Native American festival would create a greater understanding and awareness of the unique and diverse cultures of Native Americans. This festival is being created for Indians and Non-Indians to share and enjoy the talent and excitement of the Native American Indian.”

The records for Indian Summer at UWM Archives (UWM Mss 250) range from 1985-2007 and includes administrative records, publicity materials, and photographs. The brochure and photographs in this post are from the inaugural festival on September 11, 12, 13 (Box 2, Folders 24 and 26).