Pechanga Reservation

Today we went to the Pechanga Indian Reservation. It was my turn to drive this time. We got there just on time to meet with Mr. Willie Pink along with other Luiseno members, our classmates, and the anthropology class. We had two stops, first at the Luiseno Nursery, then we headed more towards the village.



Mr. Willie Pink showing us how strong this dried plant actually is.




We gathered here to learn more about the Luiseno Nursery. This area is use to help cultivate the native plants that are use for basket weaving, and other native plants such us, the elderberry that could actually be used to make flutes. Mr. Pink also told us the misconception that the main food source of Native Americans were the acorns..."the reason why the acorns survived was because nobody wanted to eat them."





Then we drove about half a mile to a Luiseno Village.





I was mesmerized by the strength of these live oaks. Their branches seemed to stretch in different directions that made me feel relatively small in size.


A hut



It is amazing that the hut above was made from this mulefat. Mr. Pink told me that this plant is also use to make arrow shafts.


Mohave plant...they sort of remind me of leaves of a palm tree.



Mr. Pink telling us the different kinds of willows.


Jessica from the anthropology class holding a juncus, which are also use for basket weaving.

As the sun started to set down, it was time to leave. As we drove off...I could still hear Mr. Pink saying, I would not be proud to be the last one because..."to be the last one means, you have failed to teach."