Tracing Roots

In Tracing Roots, filmmaker Ellen Frankenstein tells the story of master weaver and tribal elder Delores Churchill of the Haida people in Canada's Pacific Northwest, who makes spruce-root hats like the one discovered with “The Long Ago Person Found”—a mummy (at least 300 years old) uncovered in a retreating glacier in British Columbia in 1999. Scientists found mitochondrial links between the mummified remains and the current First Nations people, including Churchill, who is particularly interested in the well-preserved head gear and has performed detailed analysis of its materials and construction. Frankenstein provides a short biography of Churchill—both a craftsperson and a teacher—and follows her as she renews her investigation of the Long Ago Person's hat. Churchill and other experts explain what old weavings reveal about history and the artisans who made them, with Churchill adding that this particular specimen has a personal story to tell, perhaps illustrating that its maker cared for the individual who wore it. Churchill's mission is to pass along her skills to future generations, one that is even stronger after she learned about her genetic link to the Long Ago Person, which she feels further validates her as a true carrier of authentic ancient knowledge. Tracing Roots showcases the intriguing work of deciphering human history from artifacts, while also exploring the significance of the Long Ago Person to contemporary First Nations people, and it examines how traditional arts bridge the centuries. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (M. Puffer-Rothenberg)