Penobscots get funding aimed at new center Nation hopes to preserve history, culture, traditions

MILLINOCKET – The Penobscot Nation received a $63,790 grant Wednesday to study the feasibility of creating a historical and cultural center.

The center would have two locations, one at the Stearns Assisted Living Center in Millinocket and another at Indian Island. The assisted living center is the former home of Stearns High School.

The project would provide the Penobscot Nation with an outlet to preserve its language, traditions and history. In addition, the sites would serve as an educational center for visitors, bringing economic opportunities for the facility and surrounding businesses.

“Before it’s even financially worth doing, it’s worth doing to preserve the culture,” Penobscot Nation Chief Barry Dana said at a ceremony in Millinocket on Wednesday.

He said the people of the Penobscot Nation live in two worlds.

“We have an obligation to preserve our culture,” Dana said. “At the same time we have an obligation to move forward.”

The chief said he sees the cultural center partnership as a way that both can be accomplished.

The feasibility study will estimate the number of people the facilities would attract, as well as the possible economic effects on the communities involved.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded the rural business opportunity grant to the Penobscot Nation. The department sees the project as a chance to encourage economic development, while preserving the American Indian culture of Maine.

“This historical and cultural center will enrich the lives of Maine citizens and will be a significant resource in fostering an appreciation and awareness of the unique heritage and culture of the Penobscot Nation,” spokeswoman Bridget Woodward said on behalf of U.S. Sen. Susan Collins.