By Susan Motander
The Monrovia Historical Museum will open its newest and one of its largest exhibits this Sunday. The exhibit examines the influence of Native Americans and most especially the local Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians (a part of the Gabrielino/Tonvah Tribe or Nation)
The main feature of the exhibit will be a “kizh” or “ki”, the traditional dome shaped structure of the Gabrielenos. There are even reproductions of pictograph done by early Garbrielenos. These were done with the permission of the band’s current members.
The Kizh was built over several days by members of the band and will be blessed by the group’s Chief, Ernest Salas as a part of the Grand Opening according to Mark Still, curator of the Museum.
The Grand Opening will be held this Sunday, February 9 from 1 to 4 pm. at the Museum, 742 E. Lemon Ave. in Monrovia’s Recreation Park. Still said the blessing of the Kizh will be at the beginning of the dedication and suggests those who want to see the blessing ceremony, come early.