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The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation’s Spectacular Celebration
In the heart of Hartford, Connecticut, in September 1994, Native American dancers, drummers, and spectators from all over Turtle Island gathered for one of the most spectacular powwows of the decade—Schemitzun ’94. Hosted by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, this event was more than just a powwow; it was a celebration of culture, tradition, and unity, featuring a massive $500,000 in cash prizes for world-class singing and dancing competitions.
A Powwow Like No Other
From September 15 to 18, 1994, the Hartford Civic Center transformed into a vibrant hub of Native culture. The event, known as the Third Annual Feast of Green Corn and Dance, showcased championship-level singing and dancing, breathtaking performances, and an electric atmosphere filled with the heartbeat of the drum.
With an impressive lineup of host drums, invited drums, and top-tier dancers, Schemitzun ’94 set a new standard for powwow excellence.
The Best of the Best: Singers, Drummers, and Dancers
Head Staff and Judges
Bringing together the most respected figures in the powwow world, the head staff included emcees, arena directors, and judges who ensured a fair and thrilling competition.
- Emcees: Mike Miltich, Hammond Motah, and General Grant kept the energy high throughout the event.
- Head Judges: Ben Lovely and Walter Bull ensured only the best dancers took home prizes.
- Singing Judges: Gordon Wasetake and R.G. Harris judged the powerful drum groups.
- Arena Directors: Jonathan Windy Boy, Jack Anquoe, and Johnny Smith kept the arena organized.
Honoring the Drums
Drum groups play a central role in powwows, and Schemitzun ’94 honored the best in the business.
- Honor Host Drum: Wahpe Kute, from South Dakota, led the way.
- Host Drums: Groups from Oklahoma, Minnesota, and Washington, D.C., brought powerful beats.
- Invited Drum Groups: Top groups from across the U.S. and Canada, including the 1993 World Champions, Stoney Park from Alberta, and well-known groups like Pipestone, Black Lodge, and White Fish Bay.
Top Native Entertainers
The powwow also featured performances from famous Native entertainers, including:
- Charlie Hill – a renowned Native American comedian.
- Buddy Big Mountain – a master ventriloquist.
- Joanne Shenandoah – a celebrated Native singer.
- Floyd Westerman – a respected musician and activist.
The Ultimate Dance Competition
The highlight of Schemitzun ’94 was the World Championship Singing and Dance Contest, where dancers competed in various categories for massive cash prizes.
Major Dance Categories and Prizes
Dancers of all ages competed for their share of the prize money, with three consolation prizes in each category.
Golden Age (55+ years)
- 1st Place – $2,500
- 2nd Place – $2,000
- 3rd Place – $1,500
- 4th Place – $1,000
- 5th Place – $800
Senior Adult (35–54 years) and Junior Adult (18–34 years)
- 1st Place – $2,000
- 2nd Place – $1,500
- 3rd Place – $1,000
- 4th Place – $800
- 5th Place – $500
Teen (13–17 years)
- 1st Place – $1,000
- 2nd Place – $800
- 3rd Place – $600
- 4th Place – $400
- 5th Place – $350
Junior (6–12 years)
- 1st Place – $600
- 2nd Place – $500
- 3rd Place – $400
- 4th Place – $300
- 5th Place – $250
Tiny Tots (5 and under)
- All participants received a daily cash prize!
The categories included:
- Traditional, Fancy, and Grass Dance for men
- Traditional, Fancy, and Jingle Dress for women
Special Events: Fun for All Ages
Before the main competitions, the powwow featured a full day of special events on September 15th. These included:
- Hand Drum Contest ($1,500 for 1st place!)
- Hoop Dance Contest
- Rabbit Dance and Team Dance Contests
- Men’s and Women’s Trick Songs
- Calumet Dance Contest
- Eagle Feather Dance Contest
These contests provided even more chances for participants to show off their skills and win big.
Admission and Attendance
With thousands of attendees expected, Schemitzun ’94 offered affordable all-day tickets:
- Adults – $5.00
- Children under 12 – Free
- 4-day pass – $10.00
The Sheraton Hartford Hotel served as the host hotel, and nearby camping options were available for visitors.
Why Schemitzun ’94 Was Unforgettable
Schemitzun ’94 was more than just a powwow—it was a historic gathering of Native talent and tradition. With unprecedented prize money, the biggest names in powwow culture, and spectacular entertainment, this event cemented itself as one of the greatest celebrations of Native heritage in the 1990s.
For those lucky enough to attend, it was a weekend of pride, community, and unforgettable performances.
Did you or your family attend Schemitzun ’94? Share your memories in the comments below!
