Sadly, this year four different funerals kept people away. However, the young Gourd Singers and Bird Dancers came from all along the Colorado River to sing the traditional Creation Songs in their traditional Creation Valley.
May 21, 2006- Passing of Mr. Barrackman
It is with great sadness that I write to tell you that Mr. Llewellyn Barrackman, former Chair and Vice-Chair of the Fort Mojave Indian Tribe, passed over at 9:30 am Sunday May 21. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Betty, and their children, adopted children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many, many friends. He was one of the most remarkable men I've ever met in my life; I will miss so very much his twinkling eyes as he told his stories. I will miss hearing him speak to the young ones about what it means to be Mojave and about the Ward Valley struggle. He was a man of great integrity and honesty. He was a warrior in the truest sense. He was a leader of great wisdom and compassion. I will hold him in my heart always.
Molly Johnson
Fort Mojave Indian Tribe
500 Merriman
Needles, CA 92363-2229
Mrs Betty Barrackman
1900 Smokestack
Needles, CA 92363-2229
Ward Valley Reunion and Celebration of Sacred Lands,
February 2006
Phillip Smith, photo by Jennifer O. Viereck