Revitalization of the Miami Culture – Indiana and Beyond

In celebration of Archaeology Month, Chautauqua-Wawasee will host “Bringing History Alive” with a program on the Revitalization of the Miami Culture: Indiana and Beyond. The presentation is free to attend outdoors at the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation Ruddell Pavilion, 11586 N State Route 13, Syracuse, IN, on Saturday, September 6 from 10 AM to Noon.

Logan York, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, will discuss contemporary revitalization of Myaamia culture and review ancient Tribal history of Myaamiaki neehi Myaamionki: Miami People and Miami Land, including the Tribe’s removal to and establishment in Oklahoma. The present era of revitalization, including the Tribal processes and reasoning that underlay Myaamia strategies for cultural renewal, will be Logan’s focus. He will highlight contemporary Miami art and the artists who are significant contributors to Myaamia cultural revitalization.

Two regionally famous Myaamia artists, Dani Tippmann (fine basketry) and Katrina Mitten (beadwork), will be present to share samples of their art and to dialogue about their exquisite work for attendees to view both before and after the presentation.

About the Presenters

Image of Logan York

Logan York is the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma and a citizen of the Tribe. Logan is an active member of the Miami community, attending tribal events, stomp dances, and other cultural gatherings. He has a bachelor’s degree from Miami University in Anthropology with minors in History and Archaeology. Logan came to work for the Tribe in April of 2022 after previously working for Rebecca Hawkins, the consulting archaeologist for the Miami Tribe. As THPO, he is part of the Cultural Resources Office team that is located in the Miami ancestral homelands.

Dani Tippmann is a citizen of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma and an award-winning artist who has been beading for more than 45 years. Her works have been acquired by the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery of American Art in Washington, D.C., and the Eiteljorg Museum of Native American and Western Art in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Katrina Mitten, Food Program Director for the Miami Tribe, a citizen of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, is descended from Takumwah and Chief Richardville. She was honored by the Eiteljorg Museum of Native and Western Art as Artist in Residence (in 2012, 2014, 2015, and 2024) for being a Plant Tradition Bearer and for her mastery in basketry that is made from the gift of nature’s plant world.

Why Attend?

Step into a living history experience that bridges the past and present of the Miami people. This unique program offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from Miami Tribal leaders and artists about their cultural revitalization, ancestral traditions, and vibrant contemporary art. Learn how centuries-old practices are being renewed, view exquisite basketry and beadwork up close, and connect with the stories that continue to shape the Myaamia identity today. Whether you’re passionate about history, Indigenous culture, or the arts, you’ll leave inspired, informed, and enriched.

More Information: Follow the Chautauqua-Wawasee Facebook page or call (574) 377-7543

by CHTQAAdmin

Education, Events

Digging Through History – September 11 & 12 in Syracuse, Indiana

Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum invite you to the fifth annual free two-evening series, “Digging Through History,” where history truly comes alive. Both events take place at the Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N Long Drive, Syracuse, Indiana.

Thursday, September 11 – The Pre-History of Northern Indiana

Time: 6:30 – 7:30 PM

Presented by Bryan Warder, vice president, and Pat Mooney, past president of the Indiana Archeological Society.

Discover the story of Indiana’s earliest inhabitants — people who lived here thousands of years ago and left behind remarkable stone implements. Bryan and Pat will display prehistoric artifacts and explain how they were used.

Special Feature: Bring any artifacts you’ve found for free identification and dating by Pat and Bryan.

Life and Times of Potawatomi Chief, Five Medals, has been cancelled this year.

Friday, September 12 – The Life and Times of Potawatomi Chief Five Medals-CANCELLED

Time: 6:30 – 7:30 PM

Presented by Mike Judson, this evening will explore the life of Potawatomi Chief Five Medals — a prominent leader during the frontier wars of the 1790s and the War of 1812.

Learn how Chief Five Medals:

Signed six treaties
Met Presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson
Advocated for agriculture and defended his people’s homeland

Mike will also share original artifacts and reproduction items from the era.

Event Details

Dates: Thursday, September 11 and Friday, September 12
Time: 6:30 – 7:30 PM each night
Location: Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N Long Drive, Syracuse, Indiana
Cost: Free admission
More Information: Follow the Chautauqua-Wawasee Facebook page or call (574) 377-7543

Why Attend?

These engaging programs are perfect for history lovers, students, families, and anyone curious about the people who once called Northern Indiana home. Bring your kids, neighbor kids, and grandkids to experience history in a hands-on, fun, and interactive way.

Presented with support from:
Indiana Historical Society, Kosciusko County Community Foundation, and Kosciusko County Convention, Recreation, and Visitors Commission.

by CHTQAAdmin

Education

Famous Hoosier Eli Lilly | Free Event at Oakwood Resort July 12

Famous Hoosier Eli Lilly: A Legacy of Healing and Innovation

Join us on July 12 at Oakwood Resort for the second annual Famous Hoosier program, featuring Eli Lilly.
This free public event highlights the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Eli Lilly, an influential Indiana medical pioneer whose innovations and values continue to shape not only the state—but healthcare and philanthropy around the world.

Who Was Eli Lilly?

Born: 1838 • Died: 1898

Earned the lifelong title of Colonel after serving in the Civil War
Discovered his passion for medicine as a teenager visiting a local drugstore
In 1876, Eli Lilly and Company was founded, introducing gelatin-coated pills and other innovations
His legacy lives on through both Indiana’s largest for-profit corporation and its largest philanthropic foundation

Learn more about the Lilly Milestones of Caring and Discovery.

Why Eli Lilly Still Matters

Eli Lilly wasn’t just a pharmaceutical pioneer—he was a Hoosier through and through. His legacy of innovation, integrity, and generosity continues to influence not only Indiana, but the world. And fittingly, we’ll be honoring him right here on Lake Wawasee, a place he cherished. This is more than a history lesson—it’s a chance to celebrate a life that still shapes how we live, heal, and give today.

Eli Lilly Cottage on Lake Wawasee, in Syracuse, Indiana. *Photo courtesy of the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum.

Event Details

Date: July 12, 2025
Time:

4:30 PM – Light refreshments and cash bar
5:00–6:00 PM – Presentation

Location: Oakwood Resort Inn
702 E. Lake View Rd, Syracuse, IN

Cost: Free to attend

About the Presenter

Dr. Richard Gunderman is Chancellor’s Professor at Indiana University and a practicing physician at Riley Hospital for Children. A dedicated scholar and educator, he is the author of Hoosier Beacons, which profiles 30 influential Hoosiers, including Eli Lilly. Dr. Gunderman is widely known for his engaging lectures, deep historical knowledge, and commitment to public education.

What to Expect

A lively, informative program celebrating one of Indiana’s most impactful citizens
A deeper understanding of the legacy of a Famous Hoosier whose work still benefits millions
Community connection, historical insight, and appreciation of Indiana’s enduring legacy

Eli Lilly didn’t just build a company—he built a legacy of care, innovation, and generosity that still touches lives today. He had a deep love for Lake Wawasee, and there’s something special about honoring his story in the very place that meant so much to him. We hope you’ll join us to reflect, learn, and celebrate the life of a Hoosier who helped shape far more than just our state.

by CHTQAAdmin

Functional pottery made in beginner pottery workshop

Art, Events

Pottery Workshop for Beginners with Kim Marcadis

Introduction

If you’ve been looking for a pottery workshop for beginners, this is your chance to work with professional potter Kim Marcadis in a small, hands-on class. Perfect for those new to clay, this workshop will guide you through creative techniques in a relaxed, encouraging environment.

About the Pottery Instructor: Kim Marcadis

Kim Marcadis is a full-time potter with a working studio and gallery in North Webster, Indiana. She specializes in playful, functional pottery that is rich in color and texture.

While most of her work is crafted on the potter’s wheel, Kim also hand-builds pieces from clay slabs. Many of her designs are inspired by nature—featuring birds, flowers, farm animals, and lake life—and she often imprints textures using natural materials like leaves and bark.

Kim first discovered pottery in eighth grade but returned to it in 2005 after moving to North Carolina. She studied at Clayworks Studio & Gallery in Charlotte, where her love for clay was rekindled. In 2016, she returned to North Webster and converted her grandfather’s mechanic shop into a studio and gallery.

Creative Process in Kim’s Pottery Workshop for Beginners

Kim’s pottery process emphasizes exploration and creativity. She fires her work in an electric oxidation kiln and uses layered surface design techniques, including:

Incising
Slip trailing
Painting with underglazes
Clear glaze finishing

These methods allow each beginner student to explore texture and technique in their own way.

Workshop Details

Workshop Title: Pottery Workshop – For Beginners
Dates: August 14, 21, and 28th
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Syracuse Community Center- 1013 N. Long Drive, Syracuse
Instructor: Kim Marcadis
Cost: $60.00 (Plus a $5.87 Eventbrite processing fee.)
Participant Limit: 8 people

To reserve your spot/ticket, please click HERE.

See Kim Marcadis’ Work Online

View more of Kim’s pieces at her gallery site:
Backwater Girl Pottery

by CHTQAAdmin

Art, Events

Beginners Stained Glass Workshop in Syracuse

New for 2025: Discover the Art of Stained Glass

Looking ahead to fall? This is a great time to explore a new hands-on art class in Syracuse. Chautauqua Wawasee and the Syracuse Parks Department are excited to introduce a beginner’s stained glass workshop.

During this three-session course, you will learn how to select a pattern, cut and grind glass, apply copper foil, solder, and finish your own stained glass panel. The process is simple to follow and deeply rewarding.

All materials, tools, and equipment are included in the registration fee.

Stained glass artist Sally Mahnken

Meet Your Instructor: Sally Mahnken

Sally Mahnken is a Syracuse-based stained glass artist and a regular exhibitor at the Wawasee Fine Arts Festival, where she has shown her work for the last 10 years. She has also participated in the Winona Lake Fine Arts Show twice and exhibited pieces in two regional galleries. These venues have offered great opportunities to share and sell her work, as well as focus on commissioned stained glass.

Her creations include stained glass panels, sun catchers, tables, lamps, and windows. In addition, she uses leftover scrap glass to create mosaics—both as a sustainable practice and an artistic challenge.

Sally works with the copper foil technique made popular by Tiffany, and sometimes uses lead cam to frame circular designs. She has taken numerous classes to sharpen her skills and broaden her creative range. However, she is quick to say she does not consider herself a professional stained glass artist. In her own words, she considers herself “a very good amateur.”

Beginners Stained Glass Workshop

Dates: September 4, 11, and 18
Time: 5:00 to 7:30 PM
Location: Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N Long Dr., Syracuse, IN
Instructor: Sally Mahnken
Cost: $65.87 (Includes a $5.87 Eventbrite fee)
Class Size: Limited to 8 participants

Register HERE

This brand-new class is limited to just 8 participants. Register early to reserve your spot and experience the joy of stained glass. You’ll leave with a finished piece and the knowledge to continue creating on your own.

by CHTQAAdmin

Teddy and Edith Roosevelt_Featured Patriotic Speakers_2025

Education, Events

Teddy and Edith Roosevelt: Chautauqua-Wawasee 2025 Speaker Series

Teddy and Edith Roosevelt Come to Life at Chautauqua-Wawasee’s 2025 Patriotic Speaker Series

Experience history as President Teddy Roosevelt and First Lady Edith Roosevelt come to life at the 5th Annual Patriotic Speaker Series, presented by Chautauqua-Wawasee. This free program features professional actors Larry and Julia Marple portraying the 26th President and his wife, bringing their stories, passions, and era to vivid life.

Join us on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from 4:30–5:30 p.m. at the Wawasee High School Auditorium in Syracuse, Indiana.

About the Program

Teddy and Edith Roosevelt will discuss major topics of the early 1900s, share personal stories from their lives together, and reflect on their love for nature and conservation.

At age 42, Teddy Roosevelt became the youngest person ever elected President of the United States. As president, he reshaped the executive office, promoting social justice, regulating American industry, and laying the groundwork for modern governance.

In addition to his political achievements, Roosevelt was a celebrated author, big game hunter, and world adventurer. Conservation was central to his legacy—Teddy Roosevelt protected over 200 million acres of land for future generations and championed the healing power of nature throughout his life.

Edith Roosevelt will offer insights into her role as First Lady, describing the challenges and joys of being “the woman behind the man.” She will share how she managed official communications and family matters while supporting her husband’s dynamic presidency.

Event Details

Date: Sunday, June 29, 2025
Time: 4:30–5:30 P.M.
Location: Wawasee High School Auditorium, Syracuse, Indiana
Admission: Free and open to the public

Additional Festivities in Syracuse

Later that evening, enjoy the annual Patriotic Pops Concert by the Fort Wayne Philharmonic Orchestra on the lawn at Oakwood Resort.
The concert begins at 7:30 P.M., and attendance is free. Visit the Chautauqua tent for a complimentary flag and glow light for the whole family!

Learn More

For full event details, follow us on Facebook or call 574-377-7543.

by CHTQAAdmin

Join us at the 2nd annual Pawasee Dog Parade

Events, Recreation

Pawasee Dog Parade Returns to Oakwood Resort – June 7!

Back by popular demand, the 2nd Annual Pawasee Dog Parade is happening Saturday, June 7, from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the beautiful Oakwood Resort in Syracuse, Indiana — and trust us, you won’t want to miss it!

Last year’s parade was paws-itively delightful! From wagging tails to dazzling costumes, the laughter and community spirit were unforgettable. Dogs of all shapes and sizes strutted their stuff along the scenic parade route, and we’re bringing that same joy and energy back this year, with even more fun in store.

What to Expect

Join us for a short and scenic quarter-mile parade route through Oakwood’s charming lakeside grounds. Whether your pup is a seasoned performer or just loves the spotlight, all are welcome.
Feel free to decorate wagons, strollers, and leashes — and don’t forget to dress up with your dog!

Prizes Will Be Awarded For:

Best Dressed Dog
Best Dog Trick
Best Tail Wag
Plus surprise categories to keep things playful!

Hosted By

Chautauqua-Wawasee, New Hope Pet Rescue, Special O.P.S. K-9 Academy, Syracuse-Wawasee Trails, and Oakwood Resort — all joining forces to create a day filled with community, creativity, and canine cheer.

Suggested Donation

This is a free event, but we encourage a $15 donation to support New Hope Pet Rescue, a local nonprofit doing incredible work saving and caring for animals in our community.

Event Details

When: Saturday, June 7 | 10:00 a.m.–Noon
Where: Oakwood Resort, 702 E. Lake View Road, Syracuse, Indiana
Cost: Free | Register onsite

Learn More

Follow us on Facebook: Chautauqua-Wawasee and be sure to check out our full list of upcoming events for more family-friendly fun!

by CHTQAAdmin

Archive, Recreation

2025 Taps Across the Water – A Moving Memorial Day Tribute

Sunday, May 25, 2025, marks the 5th annual Taps Across the Water tribute across Lake Webster, Lake Wawasee, Syracuse Lake, and Lake Papakeechie.

This moving event honors U.S. military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Trumpeters and buglers stationed around the lakes perform a stunning Echo Cascading Rendition of Taps—a four-minute, multi-directional experience that resonates powerfully across the water. Taps Across the Water creates a reverent, deeply memorable moment for attendees and participants alike.

About Taps Across the Water

Led by Dr. Matt Murdock, an educator with ties to Indianapolis and North Webster, Taps Across the Water brings together nearly 40 musicians, including:

Local veterans
Community band members
High school students and music directors
Professional trumpet players

Inspired by Jari Villanueva’s Taps Across America, Taps Across the Water also raises awareness about the shortage of live trumpet players at military funerals.

“This gives students a meaningful way to connect with their community—both now and beyond graduation.”
– Dr. Matt Murdock

Faith Bradley-2024 Bugler at Taps Across the Water

North Webster Lake Schedule

6:15 PM – Military Service at the Town Park
A brief service with live trumpet music and remarks, followed by a ceremonial salute from the North Webster American Legion Post 253 Honor Guard.

6:30 PM – Listen for Taps Across the Water
Hear the Echoing Taps from the Town Park, your pier, boat, or aboard the Dixie Sternwheeler as it launches in sync with the tribute.

7:05 PM – Trumpet Concert
Enjoy a 20-minute trumpet performance at the Town Park following Taps Across the Water.

Wawasee, Syracuse, & Papakeechie Schedule

8:10 PM – Trumpet Ensemble Concert at Oakwood Gazebo
A patriotic concert sets the tone for the evening before musicians head to their designated pier locations around the lakes.
Presented by Chautauqua-Wawasee & American Legion Post #223.

9:00 PM – Moment of Silence
Mark Knecht, Chautauqua-Wawasee Board President, says, “In addition to notifying the community, we alert the lakefront restaurants about the timing of the event and propose that guests observe one minute of silence before the starting of the Taps.”

9:09 PM – Listen for Taps Across the Water
Taps will echo across all three lakes.

“Every year people plan for this moment. Wind can affect the sound, but the impact is always powerful.”
– Karen Kroemer, Event Organizer

Tips for Attending Taps Across the Water in Syracuse, Indiana

Listen from your pier, boat, or designated public viewing locations:
- The bridge by the Channel Marker
- The Public Boat Launch
- Oakwood Resort

For updates, please follow Chautauqua-Wawasee on Facebook

Join us in honoring the fallen with reverence, gratitude, and the sound of Taps.

by CHTQAAdmin

Chautauqua Wawasee Fine Arts Festival 2025

Art, Events

Wawasee Fine Arts Festival 2025 | Art, Music & Family Fun

Wawasee Fine Arts Festival Returns to Oakwood Resort

Chautauqua-Wawasee is proud to host the 11th Annual Wawasee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood Resort on Saturday, May 24, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

This beloved outdoor festival brings together a diverse range of fine art, featuring pottery, watercolor, oil painting, jewelry, and specialty art crafted from natural materials like wood, glass, and metal. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, created by talented artisans who reflect the beauty of the world around us — many with a lake-life influence perfect for the Syracuse-Wawasee community.

This year’s festival will welcome more than 30 juried artists, ensuring a broad and inspiring selection for guests to explore. Every artist is carefully selected to provide fine art of the highest quality — so you’re sure to discover a special treasure to take home.

Plein Air “Paint Out” Returns

Also returning this year is the popular Plein Air Paint Out, sponsored by the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association. Plein Air, or “painting outdoors,” allows artists to capture the local landscape directly onto canvas while immersed in the environment.

All Plein Air artwork will feature scenes from the Syracuse/Wawasee area. Prizes will be awarded following the event, with Plein Air pieces available for purchase shortly after 4:00 p.m.

A Fun-Filled Day for the Whole Family

The festival will take place outdoors (rain or shine) in the beautiful lakefront park setting at Oakwood Resort in Syracuse, Indiana. In addition to browsing incredible art, families will find activities for children, both recreational and artistic — so there’s truly something for everyone!

Enjoy delicious food and drinks from local food trucks on-site, or visit Oakwood’s Pier & Back Porch Restaurant for a relaxing meal.

Admission is free, with free parking available. For added convenience, a golf cart shuttle will be running between the parking lot and the festival grounds.

Live Music Entertainment

Guests can enjoy live music throughout the day, featuring performances by Garry Jones Music and Michelle Fife on the Dulcimer.

Event Details:

What: Wawasee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood
When: Saturday, May 24, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: Oakwood Resort, Syracuse, Indiana
Cost: Free Admission

Questions?

Contact us at info@ChautauquaWawasee.org or call 574-377-7543.

2025 Festival Map

by CHTQAAdmin

2025 Points of Interest Cruse-Narrated by Ann Garceau

Events, Recreation

Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise – May 17, 2025

🚤 Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise – May 17, 2025

If you’ve ever wanted to step back in time while enjoying the beauty of Indiana’s largest natural lake, this is your chance. The Lake Wawasee historical cruise is back for 2025—an unforgettable two-hour event aboard the SS Lillypad II, brought to you by Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum.

Local historian Ann Garceau will narrate the cruise, highlighting fascinating “Points of Interest” along the shoreline. Learn about the lake’s rich past as you float past sites of historic hotels, entertainment venues, marinas, and more. You’ll receive a map of the lake so you can follow along during the journey.

🎟️ Tickets:
This event sells out quickly, so don’t wait! Purchase your tickets in advance!

🗓️ Event Details:

Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Boarding begins at 12:45 PM)
Location: The Frog Tavern, 1116 S Harkless Drive, Syracuse, IN
Ticket Link: Click HERE to purchase

📍 What to Expect:

A narrated tour of historic and lesser-known spots around Lake Wawasee
Insight into past events, property owners, boat taxis, and restaurants
Snack food provided and a cash bar available onboard
A relaxing and educational afternoon on the lake

📞 Questions?
Contact Chautauqua-Wawasee:
Phone: 574-377-7543
Email: info@chautauquawawasee.org

Chautauqua-Wawasee is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to offering quality programming centered on Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation—enhancing life in Syracuse and the surrounding region.

by CHTQAAdmin