"Raising the John T. Williams memorial totem pole was part celebration and part hard work. Volunteers carried the pole from Pier 57 on the waterfront, where it was carved, to its new permanent home near the Space Needle. John T. Williams' brother Rick planned the totem pole as a gesture of peace, to celebrate his family's history as master carvers.

After its journey through the streets, the totem pole was moved into position and finally raised with ropes and wooden supports.

Sound: (Cheering)

Elders in elaborate headdresses and bright shawls looked on. Others burned sage, drummed and sang. Nine–year–old Tahahawat Payne wore regalia along with a windbreaker. His teeth chattered but he waited quietly to present a gift to Rick Williams. His mother Anna Sablan of the Quileute tribe explained:

Sablan: "Traditionally in Quileute when you have a memorial you exchange gifts. So my son brought a drumstick to give to Rick.""

Get the Story:
Memorial Totem Pole Raised At Seattle Center (KUOW 2/27)

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