Doran Morris Jr. was named the new keeper of the Omaha Tribe's sacred pole at a ceremony at the Museum of Nebraska History in Lincoln.

In the Omaha language, the pole is known as Umoh�o�ti, or "Real Omaha." He is a living being who unified the tribe at a time of suffering and division.

The pole was nearly lost in 1888, when Yellow Smoke, its keeper, said he would be buried with it. He was convinced to loan it to the Peabody Museum in Massachusetts for safekeeping.

The pole is now being held at the museum in Lincoln. It will be returned to the reservation once the tribe builds a cultural center.

Get the Story:
Omaha Native accepts spiritual burden of his people (The Lincoln Journal Star 9/26)

Relevant Links:
Omaha Tribe - http://www.omahatribeofnebraska.com