Early this month. August of 2024, Onöhsagwë:de’ Cultural Center opened our brand new ‘Cornplanter’ exhibit. ‘Cornplanter’ the exhibit centers on the important Seneca leader- Cornplanter. This exhibit is in honor of our community, many of which are descendants of Cornplanter.

Darlene Miller, in fact is a descendant of Cornplanter and proud member of the Cornplanter Descendants Association (CDA). Darlene has seen 75 winters so far in her life and is Hawk clan hailing from the William O’Bail family line.

Click the button below to access extra genealogical information about some of Cornplanter’s son, William O’Bail’s descendants!

Darlene’s great grandmother was Sarah Fatty (see image). Sarah’s daughter, was Phoebe who Darlene called “Dello”. Phoebe had two daughters herself, Mary (Darlene’s mother) and Kathryn. Kathryn being born the same generation as Darlene was like a sister to her.

Darlene has fond memories of her grandmother. She recalled how her grandmother had taken her to the CDA picnics faithfully. The CDA picnics were so special because the Cornplanter grant (where the picnics originally took place) acted like a bridge. Connecting family from Cattaraugus and Allegany once a year for swimming, softball, and delicious homemade food. It was a big deal to see her gram put her heart and soul in the food. Her grandmother used to say, “if you have a good mind, heart, thoughts, you’ll have good food.”

Darlene’s grandmother and her uncle John influenced many of her values she now holds today. Growing up, Darlene heard the Seneca language used conversationally everyday and is now a major advocate for the revitalization of the Seneca language. Growing up, she was also always reminded of the importance of her culture and the ceremonies; as well as the importance of family.

Today Darlene shares all that she has learned by being a Faithkeeper. For around 45 years, she has been in this role of Faithkeeper, working to preserve the cycle and the ceremonies associated with it. It is her highest priority to share her culture’s way of life with everyone, especially the children. She remarks on how the future lies with the children. They are the ones who will take care of the earth, the people, and will continue to pass down all we learn.

Darlene urges us to remember where we come from. The creator sent us here and gave us gifts, and if you have a gift you should use it to give back. Her last bit of advice she disclosed was to always remember the teachings of your ancestors.

Learn more about Darlene’s family and ancestors by visiting the Cornplanter exhibit today! Follow us on social media for updates and more.