From Peril to Perseverance: Dr. Arthur C. Parker and the Seneca Arts Project

Author: Brennan Ciccolone

Field of Study: Arts and Humanities

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Will Glovinsky

Easel: 41

Timeslot: Afternoon

Abstract: Like many Native people, the Haudenosaunee were subjected to culturcide and assimilation using residential schools like the Thomas Indian School in the late 19th and early 20th century. In 1925, the Seneca archaeologist Dr. Arthur C. Parker was hired as the director of the Rochester Museum and Science Center. Parker used his museum position to uplift and preserve Haudenosaunee arts and culture. This paper focuses on his Seneca Arts Project (1935-1941), which gathered art and artifacts from both ancient and contemporary Haudenosaunee members. This project explores how Parker’s work was used to help revitalize and honor Native American identity in New York State. Consulting biographical pieces, historical research, newspaper articles, and state archives, this paper argues that Parker’s work was key in revitalizing Haudenosaunee culture and helped lay the groundwork for the Red Power movement.