COURTLAND—Delegate Roslyn C. Tyler, D-Jarratt, and state Sen. Frank M. Ruff Jr., R-Clarksville, were recognized Saturday during the ninth annual Indian Powwow for getting the Cheroenhakas (Nottoway) Indian Tribe of Southampton County recognized by the Virginia Assembly.

Tyler and Ruff wrote legislation, which was passed, that led to the tribe’s recognition.

Despite the 100-plus degree heat, a total of 1,250 attended the two-day powwow, which concluded Sunday, at Southampton County Fairgrounds.

Chief Walt “Red Hawk” Brown blamed the lower attendance on the weather.

“Last year we had between 1,700 and 1,800,” Brown said. “Most of the turnout (this year) was on Saturday.”

Dancers were provided with water while performing and after leaving the arena.

“We made sure all the dancers had water,” Brown said. “Safety was one of our primary concerns.”

During the grand entry, Master of Ceremonies Jerome “Good Eagle” Kays announced entries to the dance arena, which had religious overtones.

Ellis “Soaring Eagle” Wright, vice chief of the Cheroenhaka Tribe, led the tribe’s color guard and the posting of Eagle Staff and Colors. All veterans were invited into the arena for a dance in honor of their service to their country.

Brown gave the welcome.

The Pow Wow continued with various dances, drumming and educational demonstrations.

A host of vendors of both Indian crafts and food were present.