A Cloud Over the Land: Book Talk + Tour of Andrea Carlson Future Cache
Deborah Richmond, the Tribal Historian of the Burt Lake Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, discusses “A Cloud over the Land,” the recently published book by historian and author Rick Wiles about the Burt Lake Burnout of 1900, an event memorialized in the exhibition “Andrea Carlson: Future Cache” currently on view at UMMA.
With her wealth of knowledge and dedication to preserving the rich cultural heritage of her community, Richmond will share the difficult story of how the Native American village at Burt Lake in Brutus, Michigan, was mercilessly reduced to ashes, rendering families homeless and stripping them of their ancestral lands, by a wealthy land developer and the local sheriff.
Following her talk, please join Richmond with “Future Cache” curator Jennifer Friess in the gallery for a tour of the exhibition. Free and open to the public.
2-3 p.m. Book Talk, UMMA Auditorium 3:15-4 p.m. Exhibition Tour of Andrea Carlson Future Cache with Jennifer Friess and Deborah Richmond, Vertical Gallery
More About Deborah Richmond
Deborah Richmond, a proud descendant of the Burt Lake Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, maintains a deep connection to her ancestral roots. Her journey into the rich tapestry of her heritage began with childhood reunions, where stories of her Native great-grandmother’s medicinal teas and her great-grandfather’s life as both a farmer and a fishing guide were woven to present a vivid picture of indigenous life in Northern Michigan.
In 2023, Deborah was bestowed with the title of historian of the Burt Lake Band, a role she approaches with reverence and dedication. With an associate degree and years of immersive learning in Native American history and culture, Deborah’s expertise is grounded in both education and firsthand experience.
In her role as tribal historian, Deborah Richmond sheds light on the poignant narrative of the Burt Lake Band, notably delving into the tragic events surrounding the Burnout of 1900. What sets Deborah’s presentations apart is her unique perspective, presenting the story from the viewpoint of the Burt Lake Band itself—an approach that has never been undertaken within the Tribe’s historical discourse. Through her compelling storytelling, she offers an understanding of the challenges, resilience, and perseverance of her people in the face of adversity.