Mahkahkw (Squash)

This is Nanticoke Squash, a plant that was cultivated by and named after our ancestors. 

Mahkahkw (Squash in Nanticoke) is the oldest domesticated seed crop in eastern North America. And these Nanticoke Squash plants reaffirm the Nanticoke’s cultural legacy, agricultural history, and connection to land. 

This summer, NRFF shared Nanticoke Squash seedlings with members of the Nanticoke community and friends of NRFF. By welcoming these Mahkahkw home, planting them in their soil, and helping them flourish, we ensured these plants continue for future seasons. The squash recognized this care, and our reciprocal relationship, and nourished us with their harvest. 

Food is medicine. And this medicine is healing us by saying we are still here, our seeds are still here, and we will continue to be rooted in this land. Rematriating these seeds has cultivated healing, peace, and community. 

One of the only organizations with Nanticoke Squash, Experimental Farm Network, shared their seeds with NRFF. A heartfelt thanks to the many groups making seed rematriation possible, including EFN, Truelove Seeds, Indigenous Seed Keepers Network, and Seed Savers Exchange. We appreciate you! 💚

Keep reading to learn about other plants native to the Delmarva region like Mahchikpi (Pawpaw), Tehim (Strawberry) and Nènèskakw (Eastern Redbud).

References: Native American Food Sovereignty Alliance, Experimental Farm Network, Truelove Seeds, Seed Savers Exchange, The New York Times, The Guardian, Popular Science, Mother Earth News