On Saturday, the town of Jim Thorpe celebrated the Native American heritage of the man Jim Thorpe, with the celebration of his 139th birthday. The event was held at the Jim Thorpe Monument on Route 903 just north of East Jim Thorpe.

Trisha Spillman, president of the Jim Thorpe Tourism Agency, explained how important it is to celebrate Jim Thorpe the man.

“It’s very important. We have to always look back to appreciate the future. We’re honored to have his body here. He’s the greatest athlete in the world, and we always have to pause and remember what that’s about.”

Don “Wild Eagle” Wuebber emceed the program.

He performed the traditional smudging of the monument.

“Smudging is purifying for a good heart, good mind, and good spirit,” Don Wild Eagle explained. “For everything that’s around us that we could be celebrating, giving thanks to the Creator, and the Creator can see that through the smoke.”

Stoney’s Boys Singers provided the Native American drumming and singing during the program.

Joachim “Star Cloud” Wuebber, Don Wild Eagle’s son, offered the Four Directions recitation, and performed the hoop dance.

“The Hoop Dance is for bringing what has happened in the world today,” Don Wild Eagle described. “We’re trying to bring back the mending of the earth, it’s the circle of life, to bring it together, that we are a nation in the eyes of the Creator, to show that we can live together.”

Guest speakers included state Rep. Doyle Heffley, Carbon County Commissioner Michael Sofranko, and a representative from Congressman Ryan Mackenzie’s office.

“We give thanks that we can be here today, and be recognized as one nation,” Don Wild Eagle said. “Without anybody, we would not be here. So that’s why you’re a part of this by being here. As you hear these words of wisdom, as you hear everything around you.”

Chris Morning Eagle performed a selection on the flute entitled “Coming Home,” and dedicated it to Jim Thorpe and his family.