Courtesy Wolfhorse Outfitters
Shebby Lee Tours
Shebby Lee Tours, based in Rapid City, S.D., is named after the company president, historian and lover of Native American culture.
“I married a Native American, and my kids spent considerable time on reservations interacting,” said Lee. “My main interest is history, and that carries over into my tours.”
Lee’s travelers tend to be younger, well-to-do professionals who want more from their vacations than the usual sightseeing. “They’re willing to pay more to get it,” she said.
The motorcoach trips can be short in duration or as long as two weeks, such as the 2,000-mile-plus Lewis and Clark Expedition, some of it through Native American lands where guide Sacajawea kept the expedition on track.
“It’s from St. Louis to Portland. We include the whole trail and follow it faithfully,” said Lee.
The Vanishing Trails retraces trails originated by Native Americans. One trip covers the great westward migrations of the mid-19th century and the impact of Manifest Destiny on Indian civilization.
Other trips include a visit with a tribal elder in his home, the excitement of a powwow or a look at the Dakota War of 1862. “We’re less interested in the battles than in the why and how,” said Lee.
www.shebbyleetours.com
Florida Native American Heritage Trail
The self-guided Florida Native American Heritage Trail honors Florida’s Native American cultures, past and present.
“The trail is a network of 60 Florida sites where those interested in the ancient, pre-Columbian, pre-Europe eras and modern Native Americans can learn more,” said Marty Ardren, a trail director.
Statewide network members include major museums in Tallahassee and Gainesville and historical sites, burial and temple mounds, state parks, battlefields, ruins, archaeological finds, caverns and more.
There are two federally recognized Indian tribes in Florida today — the Seminole Tribe and the Miccosukee Tribe — and many other bands and communities.
“We want tourists to know there has been human occupation of what is now Florida for 12,000 years, perhaps more,” said Arden. “Those ancient Native Americans left a variety of material culture behind, like mounds, arrowheads, pottery and baskets. Much of their lands are publicly accessible. It shows how old and rich their culture is.”
A 32-page brochure, a detailed map and a website were created to link the many sites in Florida.
“The timing was just right for us to do this,” said Arden.
