Grandmother Spring
Honoring Grandmother Agnes Baker Pilgrim
Putting a face to the name “Grandmother Spring”, WellSprings honors Grandmother Agnes Baker Pilgrim as an elder and historian who devoted her life to protecting and preserving water, nature, and tribal culture. As chieftain of the Takelma band of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz and as original chairperson of the International Council of Thirteen Indigenous Grandmothers, Pilgim is remembered for her significant contribution of sharing ancient wisdom with everyone she met. Recognized as a “Living Cultural Legend” by the Oregon Council of the Arts, “Grandmother” shared the importance of making wise decisions that take into consideration the ancestors, great grandchildren, and Mother Earth.
Tribal Wisdom
Grandmother River – Naso Tribe Teaching
When chieftains and elders from the Naso tribe of Northern Panama were asked, “Who is your God?” and “To Whom do you pray?”, their answer “GRANDMOTHER RIVER” comes as little surprise. Providing food, medicine, shelter, transportation, and protection that sustained Naso civilizations before and following the conquistador invasion – it makes perfect sense that the Naso direct their prayers to Grandmother River for continued health, vitality, and longevity.
Community & Healing
Today as in times past, the warm water of “Grandmother Spring” provide an environment where people from all walks of life come to gather for relaxation, rejuvenation, ceremony and healing.
Historical Significance & Sacred Springs
In a similar fashion, the artesian springs on the land now called the WellSprings nourished Northwest indigenous tribes over a time spanning tens of thousands of years. Bioregional and migrating tribes, alike, would gather at the warm springs on the shores of Bear Creek to pray for continued health and longevity of their nations. Revered as a ceremonial site, it was customary for warring nations to put down their arms in the vicinity of the mineral springs.