SALT CAMP

About the Book

Beginning at the time of her birth in the cemetery at St. Francis, South Dakota, on June 8, 1917, Ollie Napesni captivates readers with colorful details of her life. She is a natural storyteller intriguing us with descriptions of events beginning in the 1920s and continuing into the 21st century, including how she became a renowned maker of star quilts. Descriptions of the Depression, Dust Bowl and the impact of World War II provides important information about that era and its effect on the lives of people living on the Rosebud Reservation. Ollie's adventuresome spirit took her to many areas of the country but always with a longing for Salt Camp, her childhood home. When she settles for good back on her land she begins to learn the value of Lakota religion. Traditional ceremonies saved her life, yet her ability to harmonize two worlds and two religions demonstrates her strength of character and wisdom.

About the Author

Lakota language teacher, storyteller, traditional beader, doll maker and renowned quilt maker, Ollie Napesni has joined the Spirit World. She delivered an address at the United Nations at the Cry of the Earth Conference in November 1993. She received the National Indian Education Association's Elder of the Year Award in 2002 and also the 2002 South Dakota Indian Living Treasure Award. She has made over six hundred star quilts since 1980 and her Veteran's Quilt is on display at the Gustav Heye Center of the National Museum of the American Indian in New York City.