Yesáh Community House
Monroe, Virginia
Before the completion of the community house monument, tents were used during the annual powwow and other gatherings. Photo by MAAP Team.
The Monacan Indian Nation is among the some of newest federally recognized Tribes (2018), but among the first ever contacted by English settlers (1607). The Monacan people faced the nearly insurmountable task of preserving their culture and identity against hostile, outside influences for over 400 years.
Much was lost during that time, but much remains of their rich culture. The Yesáh Community House serves to elevate and preserve the oral histories of the Monacan people – traditionally shared through storytelling, song, and dance – to ensure that nothing more is lost for future Monacans.
The community house complex is located on 1,300 acres of Monacan land in Monroe, VA.
“There is so much more to come. The Yesáh Community House is the first structure to be built on our nearly 1,300 acre farm property. Our community’s vision is vast and there is a lot to do. Our ancestors seven generations ago would see where we are and be in awe of our riches. When we are the ancestors, imagine where we’ll be. It’s a powerful place.”
– Chief Diane Shields, Monacan Indian Nation
The Yesáh Community House is a modern-day long-house, serving as a physical monument to the history and the continued presence of the Monacan people in Appalachian Virginia. The physical monument comes to life as the setting of an annual powwow – and other Monacan cultural events – where storytellers, dancers, drummers, and singers tell their stories.
Assistant Chief Edith Lou Branham Parrish, left, and Chief Diane Shields, right, at the Monacan Powwow.
Virtual reality was used to envision what the monument could be and would look like in the real physical space.
Monument Team
Edith Lou Branham Parrish
Chief Diane Shields
Emma Waugh
Jessica Hernandez
Victoria Ferguson
An illustration of the community house - a permanent home for the Monacan Powwow, that celebrates Eastern Siouan language, history, and culture with elements of traditional art and design. Illustration by Rebecca Steele.