HomeMy WebLinkAboutM-92-0507COUNCIL
BUSINESS & GENERAL
BILLY CYPRESS
CHAIRMAN
JASPER NELSON
ASS'T. CHAIRMAN
JIMMIE BERT
SECRETARY
MAX BILLIE
TREASURER
HENRY BERT
LAWMAKER
Miccosukee Tribe of Indians
of Florida
P. O. BOX 440021. TAMIAMI STA., MIAMI, FLORIDA 33144
TELEPHONE: 305/223.8380
4 June 1992
Mr. Cesar Odio, City Manager
City of Miami
Office of the Manager
3500 Pan American Drive
Miami, Florida 33133
Dear Mr. Odio:
111'
�.,•
On behalf of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of
Florida, I am requesting that the Tribe be placed on
the agenda for the July 9, 1992 Miami City Commission
Meeting. After reviewing the existing master plan for
the re -development of Lummus Park, the Tribe has
facilitated a counter -proposal which we feel merits
careful consideration. We would like to present this
counter -proposal to the full Commission at their July
meeting.
Please confirm this request at your earliest
convenience and thank you for your attention.
Pes ec--t y y r
l/"� '
Donald Wheeler, MPIA
Tribal Planner
cc: Billy Cypress
Jasper Nelson
Marie Osceola -Branch
92- 50'7
CONSTITUTION APPROVED BY SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR, JANUARY 11. 1962
MIAMI RIVE MICCOSUKEE/H STORIC VILLAGE AT LUMMUS PARK
WHO WE ARE:
The Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, a sovereign, federally
recognized tribal government.
WHAT WE WANT:
A long-term Government -to -Government lease agreement between the
Tribe and the City to revitalize Lummus Park.
THE CONCEPT:
Using approximately 20% of the land area of the park, the Tribe
proposed to develop an outdoor cultural center and living museum
that would feature authentic Miccosukee history, culture, crafts
and exhibits together with early Miami River history (see Fact
Sheet and Site Plan).
STRUCTURES AND ACTIVITIES:
Interpretive Center, Native American Artisans, traditional outdoor
cooking, chickee huts, cultural/historical exhibits, a small cafe
and gift shop.
WHY DOES THE TRIBE SEEK
A PRESENCE ON THE MIRK I RIVER?
To restore a portion of our lost cultural heritage. We are
culturally people of the river and we want to re-establish that
connection.
BENEFITS OF THE PROJECT
FOR THE CITY:
Enhanced neighborhood re -vitalization; security of park assured;
safe access for both passive recreational use and attractive
activities; retained earnings from certain activities help both
City and Tribal governments.
CALL FOR COMMISSION ACTION:
1. A 30-day consultation and review period to permit the Parks
Department and the Tribe to negotiate a compromise regarding their
planned activities at Lummus Park.
2. Instruct the City Manager to execute a Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) between the City and the Tribe reflecting what
the City and Tribe jointly agree to do at Lummus Park.
3. This MOU will serve as a basis for the City and the Tribe to
reach an agreement in principle and a final lease agreement to re-
vitalize Lummus Park.
92- 507
Lummus Part Redevefopwnt Coatawn
Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida
P.O. Box 440021 Tandand Station Mianmy Florida 33144
i; Telephone: 3051223-8380 Ext. 329 Fax: 3051223-1011
MIAMI RIVER MICCOSUIM/HISTORIC VILLAGE AT LUMMUS PARR
Fact Sheet
Concept: An outdoor cultural center and living museum consisting of a replicated
} pioneer settlement, a simulated Miccosukee Indian village, an wildlife ecology
theatre and a possible wildlife rehabilitation center. The Indian village would
feature Native American artisans, an interpretive center, traditional outdoor
cooking, a cafe and a gift shop. Both the Wagner House and the Ft. Dallas
Barracks would be renovated and opened to the public as interpretive centers for
early Miami pioneer history. A wide variety of art, crafts, food cultural
programs and educational exhibits would be featured.
Location: Lummus Park located between N.W. 2nd and N.W. 3rd Streets at N.W. North
River Drive on the Miami River, City of Miami.
Lead Exhibitor: The Miccosukee Tribe of Indiana of Florida
P.O. Box 440021, Miami, Florida 33144
(305) 223-8380
Consultants: Charles A. Alden ASLA, Landscape Architect
Henry Flood, Technical Consultant
Potential Funding Sources: The Miccosukee Tribe of Indiana
_ Administration on Native Americans, HHS
Bureau of Indian Affairs, Interior
Indian CDBG Program, HUD
Florida Humanities Council
l Various Private Foundations
=r
_i
=j Potential Lease Arrangement: Approximately 20% of the total land area of Lummus
Park for no less than 20 years. Tribe would provide 24-hour security with
- Miccosukee Police officers plus on -going maintenance services for the entire
park.
Proposed New Structures: Nine chickee huts for artisans, demonstrations and
traditional outdoor cooking, two picnic chickees, an ecology theatre (including
a viewing area, stage, artificial pond and accommodations for spectators) a
recreation center, a tot lot and a possible wildlife rehabilitation center.
Proposed Park Improvements: Additional seating, substantial replanting of native
vegetation, preservation of all existing trees, on -going maintenance and
security.
Proiected Attendance: Average of 300 visitors per day.
Hours of Operation: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm seven days a week. T
Benefits to the Miccosukee Tribe: +Public Awareness +Employment Opportunities
+Additional Revenue for Tribal Services
_ Benefits to the City of Miami: +Park Maintenance and Security +Additional Revenue
for Narks
Benefits to the General Public: +Educational Opportunities +Cultural Stimulation
_ +Public Park Enhancement
(see other side)
_ �2- 507
s'
RUMOR: "The Miccosukees want to take over Lummus Park and turn it into a tourist
attraction"
FACT: The thrust of the current proposal is cultural and historical. While
tourist patronage is expected, it is not intended nor is it designed as a
"tourist attraction." In fact, it is no more accurate to view this project as
a "tourist attraction" any more than one would view the Sistorical Museum or
Viscaya as a "tourist attraction." With respect to scale, close to 80% of the
total land area of the park would remain open to the public free of charge.
There would be ample opportunities for passive recreation and other activities.
RUMOR: "The Miccosukees want to use public land to generate private profit for
their own benefit"
FACT: The presence of revenue -generating concessions in public parks is
commonplace throughout the world. The Miccosukee Tribe of Indians is a
governmental entity as defined by the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934. It is
responsible for providing the full range of public services (police, fire,
education, housing, health care, social services, etc.) for a service area
population of over 550 Native Americans. Proceeds realized as a result of this
venture will be used to finance the variety of public services provided by the
Tribe. With no local land holdings to speak of and an unemployment rate of over
40%, the Tribe's options with respect to economic and community development are
limited.
RUMOR: "All Lummus Park needs is a simple facelift - children and downtown office
workers will flock back into the park"
FACT: The neighborhood surrounding Lummus Park has been in a state of decline for
over 10 years. Despite previous ambitious plans, not a single project is
currently being considered which is capable of helping to revitalize the area.
Without substantial public and/or private investment, the neighborhood will
continue to deteriorate and Lummus Park will most likely remain largely unused,
unusable and neglected.
RUMOR: "The Miccosukees are planning to open a Bingo facility, a casino and/or
sell cigarettes and alcohol"
FACT: These activities are forbidden by law on non -Indian land.
RUMOR: "The Miccosukees are planning to evict the elderly from the existing
recreation building"
FACT: Should the existing recreation building be required for the project, the
construction of a replacement structure of no less that 2,500 square feet will
be considered.
RUMORS "Lummus Park will become overbuilt and cluttered with buildings"
FACT: At most, only two new permanent structures are proposed in addition to the
Ecology Theatre. All other structures (chickee huts) are temporary and
unobtrusive.
RUMOR: "This project will result in a traffic and parking nightmare"
FACT: Lummus Park is walking distance from the Government Center Hetrorail
Station, the Cultural Center and various public and private parking facilities
which already exist. it is also anticipated that many visitors will arrive by
bus or possibly by river taxi.
QUESTIONS??? Contact Tribal Planner Donald Wheeler at 223-8380
92-- 507
2
Briefing Paper
7-A
Miami Aiver Miccosukee Indianyillave
Miccosukee Tribe of Xndians of Florida
13 January 1992
I�
E ;-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. XXTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
II. BACKGROUND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
III. PROJECT ELEMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
A. Historical Awareness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
B. Cultural Exposure . . . . . . . 5
C. Recreational Entertainment . . . 6
IV. PROPOSED CONFIGURATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
A. Interpretive Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
B. Artisans Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
C. Gift Shop/Snack Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
D. Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
V. BENEFITS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
92- 507
I. INTRODUCTION
South Florida is a region which is rich in history and natural beauty.
Regrettably, few are aware of the fact that the area was inhabited and
appreciated many years before Henry Flagler's railroad and the incorporation of
the City of Miami in 1898. The Tequesta Indians resided in the quiet serenity
of Southeast Florida for literally thousands of years. After their demise in the
early •16th century, the area was occupied by other .indigenous people who had been
displaced from their traditional homes in North Florida and Southern Alabama.
Among these people were the Seminole and Miccosukee, most of who settled within
the safety of the Florida Everglades. With the arrival of contemporary society,
much of the region's Native American past has unfortunately been forgotten.
Formally recognised by the federal government in 1962, the Miccosukee Tribe of
Indians of Florida is an acknowledged governmental entity under the Indian
Reorganization Act of 1934. The Tribe numbers approximately 320 enrolled members
and is considered one of the most traditional in North America. As the only
remaining Indian tribe in Dade County, the Miccosukee people have played an
Important but little understood role in the history and development of
contemporary South Florida.
As early as 1840, Miccosukee Indiana were establishing significant settlements
In the area we today refer to as the Florida Everglades. .Three of the most
important settlements were in the Ten Thousand Islands area, on Pine Island and
on the Miami River. These early settlements brought the Miccosukee people into
frequent contact with non -Indian settlers, many of whom were unfamiliar with the
area, Often, this contact took the form of informal trading relationships
between Indian hunters and fishermen and non -Indian traders.
Significantly, much of this commerce took place on the Miami River. Using hand-
crafted canoes, Indians with animal hides or other items for sale or trade could
1
92-- 507
easily navigate the River, between the fringe of the Everglades and the heart of
early Miand.
In fact, the Miami River has played an important role in the development of the
entire South Florida region. Unfortunately, like the history and culture of the
Miccosukee people, this role is recognized and understood by few.
In modern times, -the Indian presence on the Miami River has been confined to
strictly tourist -oriented attractions such as Musa Ssle, which closed permanently
over 25 years ago. Since then, the relationship between the Miccosukee Indian
and the Miami River has been broken and forgotten.
This year marks the 500th anniversary of the arrival in the Americas of
Christopher Columbus. Accordingly, various observances and festivities are
planned across the continent and elsewhere. For its part, the Miccosukee Tribe
of rndians views this anniversary as an occasion to renew and revitalize the
positive ties between the Indian and non -Indian community. Bringing people and
cultures into contact with one another is at the very heart of the Miami River
Miccosukee Indian Village concept which is broadly described in the pages that
follow. The remaining sections of the project briefing paper are: Background,
Project Elements, Proposed Configuration and Benefits.
History tells us that the Miami River once served as an important bridge between
Indian and non -Indian. Let us learn from the experience of the past 500 years and
use this historic occasion as an opportunity to build yet another important
bridge between the Miccosukee people and all other ethnic and racial groups.
92- 50 t
2
II. BACKGROUND
The Miami River Miccosukee Indian Village represents a concept which originated
with Mr. Gary Seals, a homeowner in Miami's Sewell Park neighborhood. concerned
about the condition of Sewell Park, Mr. Seals approached both the Miccosukee
Tribe and the City of Miami with a concept which he felt would promote the
preservation and enhancement of the park at little or no cost to the taxpayer.
After extensive consultations between the Miccosukee Tribe and the City's Parks
Department, a preliminary proposal was drafted which called for the development
of an authentic, small --scale Indian village in Sewell Park on the Miami River.
The proposed arrangement would have involved an agreement between the Tribe and
the City whereby approximately 113 of the total land area of Sewell Park would
be leased to the Tribe for the purpose of this project. In return the Miccosukee
Tribe would have provided full maintenance and security services for the entire
facility.
The proposal was first heard by the public at a hearing sponsored by the Miami
Waterfront Advisory Board on December 10, 1991. The concept met with initial
neighborhood opposition to the extent that the Board voted to recommend that the
project be considered further, but at another site.
It is the philosophy of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida to devote
particular attention to projects of cultural significance. As such, we are
convinced that the general concept of reestablishing a Miccosukee Indian
presence or, the Miami River is worthy and merits careful consideration by the
entire South Florida community. As a matter of policy, the Tribe welcomes and
encourages constructive dialogue with any and all interested parties regarding
this proposed project.
It is our desire to be good neighbors regardless of project scope or its ultimate
3
52- 507
s
location. We are anxious to consider all possible sites, configurations and
variations. Any and all interested parties are encouraged to contact the Tribe's
Planning Department directly at (305) 223-8380 to arrange for a formal
presentation.
N
99-- 507
h
17A
III. PROJECT ELEMENTS
The Miami River Miccosukee Indian Village is designed to link educational and
cultural enrichment with economic development by providing affordable
educational, cultural and recreational activities for the entire family.
The proposed project will take the form of an authentic Indian arts, crafts and
cultural- exhibition center situated on the Miami River. The following three
elements (historical awareness, cultural exposure and recreational entertainment)
form the conceptual foundation of the Miami River Miccosukee Indian VIllage
proposal. While each element is distinct unto itself, they relate to one another
in a mutually supportive and interrelated manner.
A. Historical Awareness
Raising the overall awareness of the general public concerning the history of the -
r
Miccosukee Tribe, the City of Miami and the Miami River itself is a critical
element of the proposed project. To the extent that people learn based on what
they see and experience, the Miami River Miccosukee Indian village can be thought
of as a living museum where an important part of South Florida history can be
appreciated in every sense of the word.
B. Cultural Exposure
Contact, dialogue and artistic expression are all effective ways of portraying
the life and lifestyle of the American Indian. Most Indian handicrafts are still
hand -made and are based on cultural and religious considerations. As a result,
thby reflect the ethical, religious and social basis of Native American society.
paintings, etchings, jewelry, leatherwork, patchwork sewing, wood carving and
�y badwork are all exanples of items which are enlightening, attractive and
maPketable at the same time.
5
92- 507
C. Recreational Entertainment
By providing a natural, well -landscaped setting the Miami River Miccosukee Indian
Village will be a unique, park -like place where visitors can relax and enjoy a
variety of leisurely activities. These activities could include shopping for
handicrafts, sampling various Native American dishes, taking in an alligator
handling exhibition or simply enjoying an afternoon on the Miami River.
Entertaining activities for individuals of all ages will be featured on a regular
basis.
6
92-- 507
IV. PROPOSED CONFIGURATION
As proposed, the Miami River Miccosukee Indian Village will feature four major
components:
- an interpretive centerl
- an artisans village:
- a gift shop/snack bar and
- a small arena
All structures will reflect the architecture and design styles of early Miami,
circa 1900-19.25. The site will be .landscaped (if necessary) with a variety of
.indigenous plants such that it will resemble a typical Indian camp on the Miami
River.
A. Interpretive Center (preliminary estimated cost of construction: $70,000-
$90,000)
An interpretive center focusing on the history and culture of the Miccosukee
people as well as the history of Miami and the Miami River will be established
as a public service. This center will feature a wide variety of books, maps,
periodicals, slides, drawings and other educational materials, all of which will
assist the visitor in understanding and "interpreting" the Miccosukee--South
Florida experience. Also featured will be a number of mini -exhibits, historic
photographs, artifacts and documents which tell the fascinating story of the
Miccosukee Indian and the Miami River.
B. Artisans Village (preliminary estimated cost of construction: $50,000-$70,000)
The core of the Miami River Miccosukee Indian Village will be a small-scale,
simcr, ated_.Indian artisans village consisting of nine traditional chickee huts.
ix of the nine -chickees will serve as open-air "workshops" for local. Sndian
stj�fns. These artisans will actively prepare various unique and high -quality
items.for.sale to the general public. These crafts will include basket weaving,
7
92-- 507
• bead work, traditional clothing, wood carving, jewelry and small souvenir items.
The remaining three chickees will feature outdoor native cooking (breads, meats
and beverages).
Visitors will be encouraged to observe and converse with the artisans/cooks and
purchase those things of interest to them.
C. Gift-Shop/Snack Bar (preliminary estimated cost of construction: $200,000-
$250,000)
A small gift shop and snack bar will be consolidated within a single multi-
purpose building together with a small administrative office. For sale, will be
a wide variety of Indian art and crafts from tribes throughout North America.
These items will include articles of clothing, shoes, jewelry, books, videotapes,
slides, toys, souvenirs, dolls, wood carvings, etc. Some of these items will be
made in the Village itself, while the bulk of the merchandise will originate
within the Miccosukee community or come from other tribes.
The snack bar will feature a variety of light dishes, both traditional and
contemporary. Traditional items will include; fry bread, frog legs, alligator
meat, Seminole pumpkin bread, Xndi.an corn, etc. Also available will be the more
common hamburger, cold sandwiches, soft drinks, coffee and sweets.
D. Arena (preliminary estimated cost of construction: $45,000-$65,000)
A modest arena will consist of a small stage and accommodations for up to 150
spectators. The stage will be separated from the spectator area by an attractive
.artOlcial pond. Featured in the arena will be alligator handling exhibitions,
0terpretive programs and other similar attractions.
try
8
92- 507
I]
Each component of the Miami River Miccosukee Indian Village will afford an
uncommon opportunity for both residents and tourists alike to further their
understanding of Native American life in general and the Miccosukee Tribe in
particular. They will also benefit from a better appreciation of the importance
Of river life in American history and why the Miami River is so significant to
the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida.
V. BENEFITS
The proposed Miami River Miccosukee Indian Village represents an innovative step
toward greater visibility and economic self-sufficiency for the Miccosukee Tribe
of Indians of Florida. Currently, there is no other attraction of this type In
the Miami area. The only comparable facility is the Miccosukee-operated Cultural
Center located on U.S. Highway 41, approximately 50 .miles west of urbanized
Miami.
The development of the Miami River Miccosukee Indian Village will result .in
numerous benefits for the Tribe, the City of Miami., and the entire South Florida
community. The Tribe will benefit from the generation of additional income, the
provision of employment for tribal members, and enhanced publIcOcommunity
relations.
Local residents will be attracted by a beautiful, culturally unique setting, in
which a family outing can take place at a reasonable cost. Local schools and
community groups will be encouraged to plan field trips and other excursions to
the Miami River Miccosukee Indian Village.
But more importantly, the general public will benefit from a broader and more
complete understanding of the Miami River, the Miccosukee Tribe and the American
Indian in general. At the same time, they will gain a greater appreciation of
Native American culture and the importance of cross-cultural understanding in
dealing with people of other ethnic and racial backgrounds.
Overall, the entire community will benefit from the .interaction between Native
AAmerSican and mainstream culture. Xt is our hope that the Miami River Miccosukee
radian Village will come to represent an important and historic monument to 500
- = il,yeats of progress and cooperation. We are equally confident that the next 500
yeast will prove to be even more satisfying.
10
92- 507
THE HISTORICAL
ASSOCIATION OF
SOUTHERN FLORIDA
r
• 'r
A.\ AANILUT111^I Ili iM
A. i fl IR/A A4F
President
George R. Harper
First Vice President
Ronni W. Bermont
Second Vice President
Robert A. Hunter
Secretary
John C Harrison, Jr.
Treasurer
Fernando Garda-Chacon
Past President
Hunting F. Deutsch
Trustees
Robert B. Battle
Miguel A. Bretos, Ph.D.
Ignacio Carresa-Justiz
J. Allison DeFoor H
Steven Goldberg
Matthew B. Corson
Priscilla M. Greenfield
Susan Johnson
Michael Lewis
Jack Lowell
Rev. J. Kenneth Major
Mary Stuart Mank
Joseph S. Mensch, M.D.
Lynn A. Monast
Ana Price, Ph.D.
Janice C. Pryor
Raul L. Rodriguez
Michael U. Smith
Alicia M. Tremols
Sandy Younb
Howard Zwibel, M.D.
Executive Director
June 4. 992
Mr. Donald K. Wheeler. MP1A
Tribal Planner
P. O. Box 440021
Miami. Florida 33144
Dear Mr. Wheeler:
Thank you for the opportunity to comment concerning the
Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida's proposal
regarding Lummus Park.
1. It would appear that this community has increased
concerns about any development occurring within its parks.
The best of all worlds would see Lummus Park as much
needed open green space in the heart of our urban area.
However, the decaying neighborhood and the introduction of
other buildings into that space present us with a
different situation. Two of those buildings are of
historic significance. After the Key Biscayne Lighthouse.
the William Wagner House (c.1857) and the historic long
building (c.1845) known as Fort Dallas are the next two
oldest structures in Miami and have been associated with
the Miami River for more than 150 years. Therefore, any
proposed redevelopment of the park by either public or
private sector interests must include appropriate plans
for restoration and interpretation of that historic
resource concurrently with the execution of redevelopment.
2. Because of the associated history of the William
Wagner and the historic long building, with the
Miccosukees. Miccosukee presence in the park offers
potential for an enriching educational experience.
3. Using the existing historic buildings and adding
typical Miccosukee structures. this interpretation can
highlight the South Florida culture and lifestyle of the
mid-19th Century. The connection between the environment,
the Miami River. the Everglades, and the lifestyle of both
the Miccosukee and pioneer settlements in south Florida
and how they interacted with each other should be
explored. This interpretation does not necessarily need
the introduction of additional "historic" buildings on the
site.
Randy F. Nimnicht
4.. The
cost of interpretation,
both initial capital cost
Museum Director
and ongoing
operational cost.
should be paid for by
J. Andrew Brian -x.
revenues
generated by. any redevelopment
activity proposed
Metro-DadeCu&ral Center for the
park. The concept that
these buildings should be
101West FYagierStreet
simply "landbanked"
until the "historic
community" can
Miami, Ftorida_,33130-1538
agree on
a detailed interpretive
plan to be undertaken by
(305)375-AM'
others at
some future point of time
is not acceptable.
FAX (305) 375.160p
— The historical Museum R� § p e c t P u 11 y,
- is acavdited by
{ the Amerim Association
of Museums. l ,
Via} Arvin Moore Parks Randy fir. Nimnicht
Historian Executive Director
92-- 507
s
E
,lttriettt oat) Arreptel Oratfiali Rite of Freetttamittry
SOUTNFRN JURISDICTION OF THE UNITED STATES
VaUru IA fultimi
09dritt of .FIurfila
ILL.. JOSEPH M. COVOLETSKI, 33'
6504 S.W. 61 at Terrace
South Miami, FL 33143
Tel. (305) GOO.9020
Personal Representative
July 3, 1992
Mayor Xavier Suarez and
Members of Miami City Commission O
Miami City Hall
3500 Pan American Drive
Miami, Florida 33133
Gentlemen:
As Personal Representative to the Sovereign Grand Inspector
General of the Scottish Rite of Florida, I represent 4,000
members in Miami. One of my responsibilities to act in the
best of their interests and that of our Temple.
For several years the area surrounding our Temple, located
at 471 NW 3rd Street, has deteriorated. We have had several
instances in and around our building that have been
deplorable due to the homeless persons in Lummus Park.
We are pleased with the plan that the Miami Parks Department
has submitted; however we believe that the Miccosukee
Tribe's plan will be more feasible in that it will be
policed by the Tribe and it will be a tourist attraction as
well as a park for the neighborhood. We feel this will
deter the homeless from turning it back into what it has
been previously.
Our members strongly supports the plans submitted by the
Mipeos-�kee Trib and endorse their efforts in the project.
V ry t
�JfA
Zt se '" M: �oIei
%✓"`'Pe s na Representative in Miami for
"S ereign Grand Inspector General of Florida
cc: Donald K. Wheeler, MPIA
92- 507
,Attricnt tttta Arrepteb �$rottioffItite of Wr¢emnomme
IRWIN KIRBY.330
GENERALSECRETARY
471 N. W. 3rd STREET
MIAMI. FLORIDA 33128
Mr. Donald Wheeler,
Miccosukee Tribe of
PO Box 440021
Miami, FL 33144
Dear Mr. Wheeler:
MPIA
Indians of Florida
VALLEY OF MIAMI
ORIENT OF FLORIDA
TELEPHONE (305) 374.4700
July 6, 1992
It was the pleasure of this organization, the Miami Scottish Rite
Bodies, to lend the use of our Temple for the holding of meetings
concerning the proposed redevelopment plan for Lummus Park. From
the time of its construction in the early 1920's, our facility has
been a landmark on the downtown Miami River waterfront.
The Scottish.Rite has viewed with concern the changing neighborhood
scene. As a result of a gradual decline the participation of our
membership has suffered proportionately. The Miccosukee proposal
represents an unusual opportunity for this neighborhood to reclaim
itself as a viable public presence. A clean, thoughtful and well -
managed installation, such as the tribal plan represents, can lead
the way toward a general revitalization of the area.
While recognizing that many elements must be coordinated to effect
the implementation of this plan, the Scottish Rite agrees in principal
to the plan, and offers encouragement in your efforts.
Cordially,
IRWIN KIRBY,
General Secret
cc: Joseph-Covoletski, 330
C. Edward Gonzalez, 33°
92- 507
Miami River Yacht Club #614
Post Office Box 45.1337
Miami, FL 33245
U.S.A.
28 June 1992
To: The Mayor and Commissioners, City of Miami
From: Donald C. Gaby
Subject: Miami River Miccosukee/Historic Village
I am generally familiar with the proposed plan for a Miccosukee/Historic
Village in Lummus Park on the Miami River.
It appears to me to be a good plan for several reasons.
1. It simulates in many ways the kinds of Indian Villages that once
were popular tourist attractions on the Miami River, such as Coppingers near
19th Avenue and Musa Isle near 25th Avenue.
_ 2. It will include an exhibition of Indian history and culture on the
Miami River from the earliest times into the 20th century.
3. The Lummus Park site is appropriate because it already includes two
most historic structures -- the barracks of old Fort Dallas (late 1840s) and
the William Wagner home (late 1850s).
4. The proposed Village is well designed to beautify the grounds of
Lummus Park and provide a variety of wholesome activities close to downtown
and public transportation for residents and visitors alike.
I've lived on the Miami River for the past fourteen years and spent the
past seven years researching a History of the Miami River that will be pub-
lished by October L•his year.
I'm pleased to endorse and encourage the proposed project.
If the proposed Village is approved by the City, the time is ripe for
relocating the Pioneer Club and completing the improvements to Lummus Park
begun several years ago. Very few true pioneers remain and some of those few
are unable to attend meetings downtown. Riverfront improvements in Lummus
Park, such as a landing for tourboats, could be incorporated into the Village
concept.
eRdo-7� re
Donald C. Gaby
92- 507
LA
July 3, 1992
City of Miami Commissioners
Miami City Hall
3500 Pan American Drive
Miami, Florida 33133
Gentlemen:
�'j
As a member of the Scottish Rite Bodies, I attended the
public meeting on July 2 regarding the redevelopment of
Lummus Park. This is a concern of all members of the
organization as the area has been in deplorable condition
for some time.
The plan offered by the Parks Department is excellent, but
if there is no activity in the area the homeless will be
right back in the area, except with more comforts! The plan
offered by the Miccosukee Tribe seems to be much more
feasible since it will be policed and the attractions
offered will bring people to the area and discourage the
homeless. My wife and I highly recommend the Miccosukee
proposal be accepted and the City Parks Department work with
them.
Sincerely,
� �4- A��
John and Ruth Bajus
1750 SW 71 Place
Miami, Florida 33155
cc: Donald Wheeler, MPIA
r
92-- 507
. � P
STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
Division of Economic Development
March 16, 1992
Mr. Donald Wheeler, MPIA
Tribal Planner
Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida
Post Office Box 440021
Tamiami STA.
Miami, Florida 33144
Dear Mr.. Wheeler,
Thank you for sending the concept paper regarding the
proposed creation of a Miccosukee Indian Village to
Steve Mayberry and myself. It appears to be a most interesting
and promising project.
Please keep both Steve and myself on your mailing list. I
am enclosing a copy of the overview of the activities of the
Bureau of Business Assistance for your information. if there is
any way we can be of assistance, please call.
Good luck with your efforts.
Sincerely,
Mary Velen Blakeslee, Chief
Bureau of Business Assistance
MHB/bmb
Enclosure
cc: Steve Mayberry
92-- 507
COLLINS BUILDING TALLAHASSEE. FLORIDA 32399.2000 TELEX 510/6002141 FL TRADE TAS
V LORI bt
U ki AF: , kr4l, F i " F F4, E VIF
C O U N C I L
hn nnr71 r^,.
March 11, 1992
Mr. Donald K. Wheeler, MPIA
Tribal Planner
Miccosukee Tribe of Indians
of Florida
P. 0. Box 440021
Miami, FL 33144
Dear Don:
I read the briefing paper which you sent me (Miami River Miccosukee
Indian Village) with great interest. I was, of course, especially
interested in Section A, Interpretive Center, on page 7, since it
most clearly includes humanities topics. once construction of the
center is underway, I can see all kinds of possibilities for a
grant application to FHC focusing on public programs using books,
maps, slides, drawings, lecture/discussions, etc. Also
possibilities for an application for one or more mini -exhibits
composed of historic photographs, artifacts and documents.
I would enjoy discussing this with you in more detail, when you are
ready.
Best wishes for your planning!
JO
Joan R. Bragginton
Program Director
1514 % Fast Eighth Avenue, Tampa. Florida 33605.3708 (813) 2.72-3473 5unCcmt 571-3473
92- 507
e
F L O R I D
C O U N C i L
June 30, 1992
Mr. Donald Wheeler, MPIA
Tribal Planner
Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida
P. O. Box 440021 Tamiami Station
Miami, FL 33144
Dear Don:
•
Our Director gave me a copy of your recent letter describing the
Miccosukee Tribe's progress on the proposed Miami River project.
I was delighted to hear that the Tribe's plans are progressing well
and thought I would just touch base with you to see if there is any
chance that they will be ready to apply for a humanities grant from
our Board this year? We do have one more Board meeting in the Fall
at which grant applications concerned with Native American history
and concerns will be given priority consideration for funding. The
relevant dates for applying are August 9th for preliminary drafts
and September 9th for final applications.
I am enclosing another copy of our grant application and the
Request for Proposals, in case you need them. I would enjoy
working with you, if the Tribe decides to go ahead.
Best wishes,
Joan R. Bragginton
Program Director
1514;4 East Fighth Avenue, Tampa, Florida 33()05 37QK (813) 272.3473 SunCimi 571.3473 9 2 - 507
Wednesday
Match 4, 1992
i
is
7873
-A
Federal Register Presidential Documents
Vol. 57. No. 41
Wednesday, March 4, 1992
I
I
Title 3— Proclamation M07 of March 2, 1992
The President
1
i
i •
i
I
Year of the American Indian, 1992
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Half a millennium ago, when European explorers amazed their compatriots
with stories of a New World, what they actually described was a land that
had long been home to America's native peoples. In the Northeast part of this
country and along the Northwest coast, generations of tribes fished and
hunted; others farmed the rich soils of the Southeast and Great Plains, while
nomadic tribes roamed and foraged across the Great Basin. In the and
Southwest, native peoples irrigated the desert, cultivating what .land they
could. Each tribe formed a thriving community with its own customs, tradi-
tions, and system of social order.
The contributions that Native Americans have made to our Nation's history
and culture are as numerous and varied as the tribes themselves. Over the
years, they have added to their ancient wealth of art and folklore a rich legacy
of service and achievement. Today we gratefully recall Native Americans who
helped the early European settlers to survive in a strange -new land; we salute .
the Navajo Code Talkers of World War II and all those Native Americans
who have distinguished themselves in service to our country; and we remem-
ber those men and women of Indian descent —such as the great athlete, Jim
Thorpe and our 31st Vice President, Charles Curtis —who have instilled pride
In others by reaching -the heights of their respective fields. We also celebrate. -
with special admiration and gratitude, another enduring legacy of Native
Americans: their close attachment to the land and their exemplary steward-
ship' of its natural resources. In virtually every realm of our national life, the -
contributions of America's original inhabitants and their descendants contin-
ue.
During *1992.- we will honor this country's native peoples as vital participants
in the history of the United States. This year gives us the opportunity to -
recognize 'the special place that Native Americans hold in our society, to
affirm the right of Indian tribes to exist as sovereign entities, and to seek
greater mutual understanding and trust. Therefore, we gratefully salute all
American Indians, expressing our support for tribal self-determination and
assisting with efforts to celebrate and preserve each tribe's unique cultural
heritage.
The Congress, by Public Law 102-188, has designated 1992 as the "Year of the
American Indian" and has authorized and requested the President to issue a
proclamation In observance of this year.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE BUSH. President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim 1992 as tho Year of the American Indian, I
encourage Federal, State, and local government officials, Interested groups
and organizations, and the people of the. United States to observe this year
with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
Year of the American Indian, 1992
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Half a millennium ago, when European explorers amazed their compatriots
with stories of a New World, what they actually described was a land that
had long been home to America's native peoples. In the Northeast part of this
country and along the Northwest coast, generations of tribes fished and
hunted; others farmed the rich soils of the Southeast and Great Plains, while
nomadic tribes roamed and foraged across the Great Basin. In the and
Southwest, native peoples irrigated the desert, cultivating what .land they
could. Each tribe formed a thriving community with its own customs, tradi-
tions, and system of social order.
The contributions that Native Americans have made to our Nation's history
and culture are as numerous and varied as the tribes themselves. Over the
years, they have added to their ancient wealth of art and folklore a rich legacy
of service and achievement. Today we gratefully recall Native Americans who
helped the early European settlers to survive in a strange -new land; we salute .
the Navajo Code Talkers of World War II and all those Native Americans
who have distinguished themselves in service to our country; and we remem-
ber those men and women of Indian descent —such as the great athlete, Jim
Thorpe and our 31st Vice President, Charles Curtis —who have instilled pride
In others by reaching -the heights of their respective fields. We also celebrate. -
with special admiration and gratitude, another enduring legacy of Native
Americans: their close attachment to the land and their exemplary steward-
ship' of its natural resources. In virtually every realm of our national life, the -
contributions of America's original inhabitants and their descendants contin-
ue.
During *1992.- we will honor this country's native peoples as vital participants
in the history of the United States. This year gives us the opportunity to -
recognize 'the special place that Native Americans hold in our society, to
affirm the right of Indian tribes to exist as sovereign entities, and to seek
greater mutual understanding and trust. Therefore, we gratefully salute all
American Indians, expressing our support for tribal self-determination and
assisting with efforts to celebrate and preserve each tribe's unique cultural
heritage.
The Congress, by Public Law 102-188, has designated 1992 as the "Year of the
American Indian" and has authorized and requested the President to issue a
proclamation In observance of this year.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE BUSH. President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim 1992 as tho Year of the American Indian, I
encourage Federal, State, and local government officials, Interested groups
and organizations, and the people of the. United States to observe this year
with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.