Travelers from four different communities came together this past weekend to participate in the 21st Prescott Community Education sponsored trip to the Lac Du Flambeau Indian Reservation. Participants from Prescott, St. Croix Falls, Albert Lea (Minn.), and Hudson traveled to the reservation to learn first-hand about the culture, history, and government of Lac Du Flambeau. 

“It is hands-on learning,” said Prescott alumnus Parker Hince. “It’s one thing to learn about Native people in a book, but learning firsthand from the people themselves was very powerful and impactful.”

Prescott Community Education began sponsoring the four-day learning experience in 2000 and since then, more than 180 Prescott citizens have traveled to the reservation. Additionally, Prescott High School sponsors a student trip in the fall where high school students get the opportunity to learn the living history of the Lac Du Flambeau Ojibwe. It will be the 23rd trip year for Prescott High School students. Since the beginning of the cultural educational exchange program, 383 Prescott students have traveled to Lac Du Flambeau. The fall trip is scheduled for Oct. 6-9. 

During this year's summer trip, participants participated in craft workshops, history and cultural discussion groups, and attended and volunteered at the Bear River Pow Wow. 

“The four days just flew by and it was an incredible experience,” said Prescott alumnus Hallah Jensen. “We were treated so well by everyone and the hospitality they gave was wonderful.” 

Shay Stenroos, a recent Prescott graduate who had traveled to Lac Du Flambeau while in high school said, “I certainly will be coming back again. You learn so much and have great fun doing it. I can’t wait to go back.”