Nundawao: Birthplace of the Seneca Nation
The Finger Lakes region of New York is not only a place of natural beauty but it is also of deep historical and cultural significance. For the Seneca people, this region is home to their origins. The origin story of Nundawao, tells the story of their emergence and connection to the land.
Origins at South Hill
According to Seneca oral tradition, their ancestors first appeared at a site known as Nundawao, located at the southern end of Canandaigua Lake. The Seneca refer to themselves as Onödowága', meaning "Great Hill People," a reference to this sacred place.
South Hill, the believed location of Nundawao, provided an ideal environment for early Seneca settlements. Rich in forests, freshwater, and fertile soil, the region allowed the Seneca to develop a sustainable way of life. Adjacent to South Hill is Bare Hill, known as Genundowa to the Seneca, a site that remains culturally significant. Rising approximately 865 feet above Canandaigua Lake, Bare Hill is linked to Seneca ceremonies and myths, further cementing the region's importance in their history.
The Emergence Story
The legend recounts that the earth opened at Kanandague, allowing the first Seneca people to step into the world. This act of creation laid the foundation for their identity, shaping their spiritual and cultural values.
Over time, the Seneca people flourished, establishing villages and governance structures that contributed to the formation of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy—a powerful alliance that played a significant role in shaping North American history.
Jogah
A unique aspect of the Nundawao legend involves the Jogah, or "Drum Dancers," who are said to inhabit the region. Described as benevolent but mischievous, these spiritual beings acted as guardians of nature, guiding hunters and protecting sacred lands.
Oral traditions warn that disrespecting the land could provoke the Jogah, leading to misfortune. This reinforces a central tenet of Seneca beliefs—that humans must live in balance with nature.
Preserving Seneca Heritage
Despite centuries of displacement and challenges, the Seneca Nation continues to honor its heritage. Today, efforts to preserve and share Seneca culture are visible through educational programs and historical sites.
One of the most significant is the Ganondagan State Historic Site in Victor, NY. This site includes a full-scale replica of a 17th-century Seneca longhouse, a museum detailing Haudenosaunee history, and miles of trails that traverse historic Seneca lands.
In addition to preservation efforts, the Seneca Nation actively engages in cultural revitalization. Language programs, traditional ceremonies, and legal efforts to reclaim ancestral lands are all part of an ongoing movement to keep their history alive.
Watch: Nundawao and the Coming of the Senecas
The pageant was held from 1954 to 1958.
Explore and Learn More
For those interested in exploring the roots of the Seneca people, the Finger Lakes region offers numerous sites of historical importance. Walking the land where the Seneca trace their origins can provide a deeper understanding of their enduring legacy.
How You Can Learn More and Support The Preservation of their history:
Visit Ganondagan State Historic Site to experience Seneca history firsthand.
Support preservation efforts through membership donations or volunteer work.
Share the story of Nundawao to help keep this cultural heritage alive.
