Before even the Packers inhabited Green Bay, the Oneida were living, having fun and playing games in that area.
They still do, on the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin in Brown and Outagamie counties. Known as the "People of the Standing Stone," the Oneida predate Columbus. Today, they continue their tradition of cherishing their past while also showing responsibility for the future.
A trip to the Nation can add a lot to any vacation in the Green Bay area. The natural beauty of the land reflects the tribe's respect for "Mother Earth." A drive through the area shows that this beauty has been well preserved.
The Oneida have built upon that respect and tradition with Tsyunhehkwa, which means "life sustenance." The organic farm uses sustainable methods. All services and products are available at the Nation's Ag Cannery and Retail Store.
History is very important to the Oneida. As explained on their Web site, www.oneidanation.org, the Oneida "take into account the cycle of life in all of their ceremonies and thanksgivings. They have an obligation to live in harmony with their environment. Respect for Mother Earth is reflected as they give thanks for all living things. The moon, sun, and the seasons all follow cycles that create balance and harmony. The Oneida traditionally have 12 ceremonies throughout the year to give thanks for the Creator's gifts."
The Oneida Nation Museum includes exhibits that trace the history of the tribe and give visitors the opportunity to explore the craftsmanship of tribal beadwork, clothes, tools and a reconstructed Oneida longhouse. You get a real feel for the history of the tribe through the exhibits.
History and tradition also are demonstrated in the annual Pow-wow over the Fourth of July weekend. Traditional social dances are performed.
For centuries prior to the American Revolution, the Oneida Nation controlled millions of acres of dense forests, lakes and rivers in what now is the state of New York and the surrounding area.
Oneida villages were constructed of multi-family longhouses, which were protected by surrounding palisades. Within these walls dwelled entire communities complete with sophisticated agricultural beds.
A delegation met with the Menominee and Winnebago Nations to negotiate for lands along the western Great Lakes. In an 1822 treaty, the Oneida bought a large section of land in what would become Wisconsin, and several groups moved here over the next number of years. Official reservation boundaries were established with the 1838 Treaty with the Oneida. Over the years, negotiations between the federal government and Oneida Nation have led to boundary changes.
Guided tours of the reservation emphasize this rich history and tradition, but also demonstrate that the Oneida are living and thriving in the 21st Century.
Of course, many people know about a "modern" venture -- Oneida Bingo and Casino. An 850-seat high stakes bingo parlor is just one of the highlights of the casino. You also can try your luck at the slot machines, blackjack tables or a variety of other games. The casino also houses restaurants, snack bars and gift shops.
The Radisson Hotel and Conference Center is adjacent to the casino. The complex boasts 409 upscale guest rooms that come complete with luxurious amenities. Included are in-room movies, an indoor pool, and 24-hour access to a whirlpool, sauna. There is also a fitness center that features high-tech cardiovascular equipment and a stationary lap pool. Two towers feature 214 total rooms with 40 specialty suites that include private whirlpools, bars and fireplaces.
Elegant dining is available in the Shenandoah Restaurant where they offer gourmet cuisine and favored Oneida delicacies, such as traditional Oneida Corn soup. It is conveniently located next to Purcell's, one of the premier lounges and favorite spots for Happy Hour in the area. The Three Sisters offers a buffet with hot and cold entrees and desserts.
You can find the main casino complex on Airport Drive, not far from Austin Straubel Airport. A second, smaller casino can be found on Mason Street in Green Bay, itself.
When you're at the casino or Radisson, you can't help but be struck by the contrast between that enterprise and the reverence for nature and history demonstrated elsewhere in the Nation. But, the casino and other enterprises have been undertaken with an eye on that tradition.
Oneida Development has implemented a seven generation planning concept -- based on a belief that what is said and done today affects the next seven generations, or 150 years. The nation pursues economic stability through development, enterprises and corporations. which include an industrial park, printing, retail and other ventures as well as the casino, hotel and entertainment facilities.
These ventures provide employment and economic progress for many Oneida, as well as several hundred non-Native Americans in the Green Bay area.
Several vacation packages are offered by the Oneida. A basic tour, about an hour driving tour, is available for $5, a three-hour tour for $15 and other vacation experiences ranging upwards to a full Pow-wow for $800 are offered. Some of these are seasonal, but the Nation does not shut down to tourists during winter.
