Voices of the First Peoples: Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware

Chief Dennis Coker has been involved with the Tribal Leadership of the Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware since 1996. Because of his collaboration with the Delaware State Historic Preservation office and the Federal Census Bureau, the Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware was awarded a “State Designated Tribal Area” status to include their Tribal affiliation for the first time in history. At Chief Coker’s urging, on August 4, 2016, Delaware’s Governor, Jack Markell, signed legislation officially recognizing the long and continued history of the Lenape Community in the state of Delaware.

Learn about the history, culture, nutrition, and preparation of Indigenous foods for this region. Attendees can sample Indigenous food and drink—a chance to experience unique flavors from the region’s past.

Henry Ward is professional archeologist and chef specializing in recreating foods from different cultures and time periods. His in-depth research and culinary experimentation allow him to develop authentic recipes and menus that span ages. Henry travels to historic and cultural events throughout the Middle Atlantic giving presentations about indigenous local foods, from an archaeological and culinary perspective.

Enjoy a new documentary created with the Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware, “First People. First State: Cheswold’s American Indian Community.” Through funding and support from Delaware 250 , Delaware Heritage Commission, Delaware Public Archives and 302 Stories, Inc. the Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware began a project last year, interviewing Cheswold Community Elders in an effort to their own story, in celebration of 250 years of independence. This film honors and celebrates the voices, lived experiences, profound resilience and stories from Cheswold Community Elders.