Wabanaki voices shape new welcome center at Maine national monument

The National Park Service opened a new $35 million welcome center at Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument that centers Wabanaki tribal history and perspectives, according to the Associated Press. The center, Tekαkαpimək — meaning “as far as the eye can see” in Penobscot — sits atop Lookout Mountain and offers views of Katahdin, a sacred site to the Penobscot Nation.

Developed through collaboration with the Maliseet, Mi’kmaq, Passamaquoddy and Penobscot tribes, the center features an amphitheater and eastward lookout for sunrise ceremonies. It also displays exhibits and art that reflect Wabanaki culture, stewardship and language. Jennifer Neptune, a Penobscot artist and contributor, said the site honors the mountain’s sacredness. The project was funded by philanthropic donors including the Quimby family, Burt’s Bees, L.L. Bean and the National Park Foundation. Tribal representatives shaped the design after rejecting an earlier version seen as colonial. Penobscot historian James Francis said the project’s strength lies in giving Wabanaki people a voice.