Episode 10

January 1857   Typically in Puget Sound country the snow, when it does come, is generally short-lived. The light snow of Christmas had a total accumulation of about two inches. It lingered for a few days while the temperature hovered just at freezing; then the rain of winter set in.

For native people of the Pacific Northwest, winter was the time for important social interaction between the tribes. "Potlatches" were held in most villages. These were special occasions when guests were invited from other communities to be witness to a marriage, funeral, naming ceremony, etc. At these times the young were initiated into the Klukwalli or Xan'xanitii Society, which included, of course, much singing and magic, and for the S'Klallams, Makahs and a few others of Washington Territory, masked performances. During these potlatches, guests were given payment, in cash or goods, for coming, witnessing and for services. Some of these celebrations lasted for days.

There was a huge "Potlatch house" on the beach at the edge of Naxw-kyit, the S'Klallam village at Port Gamble. There had been a lot of activity in the village and especially in and around the big building during the last week.

Klukwalli and Xan'xanitii ceremonies were off-limits to any who had not been initiated, which of course included all white people. However, John and Pete were able to be present for most of the celebration, which climaxed with a huge feast. Many Bostons were present for that.