by Portsmouth Historical Society | Oct 7, 2025
Learn about the cultural and historic significant of beadwork at this talk and demonstration.
Artist Statement:
Through each bead, I stitch resistance and remembrance. My work honors the ancestors who walked before me, carrying their strength into the present. Beading is my voice-unyielding, radiant, and alive-proclaiming that Indigenous presence will never be erased.
About the Artist:
Kimberly-Ann, 33, is an enrolled member of the Missisquoi band of Abenaki of northern Vermont and is an experienced bead worker. Born and raised in southern New Hampshire, Kimberly-Ann has been involved in her culture all her life. She began beading at the age of 12 when she was taught by a family member and continues to learn and incorporate new techniques in her work today. She has made pieces for many friends, family members, and customers; she has also made pieces featured in Peacock’s series Rutherford Falls. When not beading she can be found singing at powwows and spending time with her friends, family, and dog SadieMae.
This program is generously sponsored as a part of our William and Arlene Brewster Lecture Series.
by Portsmouth Historical Society | Sep 26, 2024
How did the people of Portsmouth’s past live? Find out at our homeschool programs.
by Portsmouth Historical Society | Sep 26, 2024
How did the people of Portsmouth’s past live? Find out at our homeschool programs.
by Portsmouth Historical Society | Aug 18, 2024
How did the people of Portsmouth’s past live? Find out at our homeschool programs.
by Portsmouth Historical Society | Aug 13, 2024
Learn about indigenous life by building a traditional wigwam
About the Presenter:
Jennifer Lee has been enjoying making bark baskets for 40 years. Her interest began with the study of her Native American ancestors of the Northeast Woodlands. She teaches basket classes and educational programs extensively. The bark roots and branches are wild harvested by her family in the Northern
Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts. She’s received awards at the Mohegan Wigwam Festival, Saratoga Native American Festival, Kearsage Indian Museum, Deerfield Craft Show, and North Carolina Basketmakers Association.
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Jennifer Lee is enrolled with the Metis Nation of North America and the Northern Narragansetts. She grew up without knowledge of her Indian Ancestry. She has spent her adult life learning the true history and culture of the Northeast Woodland Indigenous Peoples. She shares what she’s learning at schools,
historic sites, and community events. Often, classes are held in her conical wigwam. She lives in the Northern Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts. She spends her time with her Grandkids, gardening, berry picking, maintaining the houses she’s built, making baskets, teaching basketry, and attending as
many powwows as possible. She is grateful to the Creator for being able to follow her heart.