Totem Pole Legend

This project really started over 200 years ago, when a pine tree was born in a stand of virgin timber along the shore of Trout River in the year 1776.  When the tree, a monarch White Pine was cut in 1981 it was 121’9’’ tall.  It measured 38’’ in diameter and was 10 feet in circumference.  This tree was placed in a cocoon for over 2 years.  Some people call it Lion Jerry Meyer’s office basement.  This was where the Lions like a bunch of beavers went to work on it.  It was after many days of chewing, chipping, gouging and painting that the tree was converted and ready to emerge from the cocoon.  It had become the Totem Pole Na-Wak-Wa, 38 feet tall.

Totem poles are not native to Indians except for the Northwestern tribes of our continent.  They were used primarily to tell the history of a family or clan.  If there were still clans today, we are sure the Lions would be well represented in all of them.   Although the totem pole carved by the Lac du Flambeau Lions Club is somewhat symbolic to Indian carvings, this totem pole was designed and created by the Club.   

Courage...

The top figure selected was the Bald Eagle, whom we call ‘mi-gi-zi-wag’.  The eagle was best known for his courage and bravery.  It is not only our national emblem, but it also represents one of the most famous birds from Wisconsin, Old Abe, the mascot of the 8th Regiment, Company C.  In the Civil War, he took part in 22 battles and 60 skirmishes.  Old Abe came from the Lac du Flambeau Indian Reservation.  

Teamwork...

The second figure is the Beaver, whom we call ‘amik’ known for his ambition as a hard worker. One who is always willing to work together as a team to get the job done.  It also represents the Lions Clubs who work together for the good of others.   

Merriment...

The third figure is the Raven, whom we call ‘gaa-gaa-gishii’.  This raven is special because he has the eyes of an Owl, one who sees in the dark.  The raven is a very crafty bird, known to be mischievous, very loud and one who likes to attract attention.  He is well represented by the Tail Twister in every Lions Club.  The little raven, whom by legend, put the stars and moon in the sky, represents the Lions worldwide.   

Intelligence...

The next figure is the wolf, whom we call ‘ma-iin-gan’.  Known for his cunning, he has tremendous stamina, and strength.  He represents the Lions Clubs who come up with the clever and new ideas to raise funds for their programs of service.   

Strength...

The next figure is the Bear, whom we call ‘ma-kwa’.  One of the strongest of all the wild animals in North America and one of the fastest, known to be an expert fisherman and family provider.  He represents the Lions Clubs as the strongest service club in the world.   

Dedication...

The Lions Emblem, representing the Lion, whom we call ‘mi-shi-biz-ii’ is the low man on the totem pole, but is also the most important.  It is holding up all the rest.  The Lions emblem represents the millions of Lions around the world supporting every project, every event, every program of service for their community.

To all the people who attend the Lions Camp, we, the Lac du Flambeau Lions Club, dedicate this totem pole to you.  We call it Na-Wak-Wa, which means "a meeting place for friends".  We hope this will always be your Na-wak-wa.  May your stay at this camp and all those who follow you, find it to be a place of friendship.