The Legend of Sweet Tree Water

Long before books were made the history and rules of man were taught by the older members of society. The inquiring minds of youth sought to learn about their way of life and how things came to be part of it. Thus the stories of the elders were far more than amusements. They taught the history of the tribe and the traditions that guided their behavior, thoughts, and way of life. These stories sought to explain the tribal way of life and view others as family and promote harmony with the group. They were also shared with those they met including the explorers and settlers who later came. Sweet Tree Water is but one such story. An Iroquois legend passed down through the generations and celebrated with the Maple Festival of the Iroquois nation as it thanks the Great Spirit for the wonderful gift showed Moqua and Little Squirrel.