Waccamaw Legacy

Patricia Lerch was hired by the Waccamaw in 1981 to perform the research needed to file for recognition under the Bureau of Indian Affairs Federal Acknowledgement Program of 1978. In 1970, the Waccamaw began to organize powwows to represent publicly their Indian heritage and survival and to spread awareness of their fight for cultural preservation and independence. Lerch found herself understanding that the powwows, in addition to affirming identity, revealed important truths about the history of the Waccamaw and the ways they communicate and coexist. Waccamaw Legacy outlines Lerch's experience as she plays a vital role in the Waccamaw Siouan's continuing fight for recognition and acceptance in contemporary society and culture.