UNCASVILLE, CT – Mohegan Sun has introduced a new self-guided Mohegan Cultural Tour highlighting the history, traditions and symbols of the Mohegan Tribe through artifacts, artwork, architecture and cultural displays throughout the property.
The experience includes a message from Sôksqá Mutáwi Mutáhash (Chief Many Hearts), Lynn Malerba, the Mohegan Tribe’s lifetime Chief and the first woman to hold the role in more than 300 years. Mohegan elder and former Tribal Chairman Bruce “Two Dogs” Bozsum serves as narrator, with QR codes providing additional cultural and historical content.
“At Mohegan Sun, showcasing the rich history and themes of the Mohegan Tribe has always been a very meaningful part of our guest experience,” said Jeff Hamilton, President & GM of Mohegan Sun. “This new self-guided tour significantly elevates that tradition, reflecting on and showcasing the tribe’s heritage, stories, artifacts, and much more. We hope visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the Mohegan story and the living culture that continues to guide everything we do.”
Cultural displays include traditional baskets, brass kettles, toboggans, snowshoes and snow snakes, along with a map exploring the Mohegan people’s origins and migration into present-day Connecticut and the emergence of the independent Mohegan Tribe under Uncas.
Other elements include “Fireside Stories,” featuring traditional stories of Moshup the Giant and the Little People (Makiawisua), as well as paintings by Mohegan artist Kristin Emilyta. The experience also highlights significant Mohegan sites including Moshup’s Rock, Fort Shantok, the Uncas cabin foundation, Mohegan Church, Tantaquidgeon Museum and the restored Royal Mohegan Burial Ground.
Additional features throughout Mohegan Sun illustrate aspects of Mohegan culture and beliefs, including a sculptural smudge pot representing the practice of burning sacred herbs; depictions of the 13 moons of the Mohegan lunar calendar; and the Maheehkunuk rock figure and wolf, reflecting the Mohegan identity as Wolf People.
The Tree of Life is another central feature, reflecting the Mohegan belief that time is a circle connecting past, present and future. Sculptural wooden arches represent roots, trunk and branches, while beaded canopies evoke sacred red cedars and symbolize connections among ancestors, the present-day Mohegan community and future generations.
