Snow Snakes: An Interview With Darryl Peasley

So, what is a Snow Snake? Should I be afraid of encountering some lurking serpent the next time I build a snowman? The short answer is no, there is not a slithering reptile trailing its way through the New England snow. However, on February 19th there will be wooden Snow Snakes racing through the snow-covered Mt Kearsarge Indian Museum field. 

Curious about the history of this traditional Native North American winter game, I met with Darryl Peasley, co-founder of the Abenaki Trails Project,  via Zoom to learn more about what to expect on February 19th at the MKIM.   

Although this traditional game has been played for centuries across the North American continent, this marks the 2nd year for MKIM’s community game.  Inspired by the longstanding Snow Snake game hosted at the Canadian-Vermont border, Darryl was contacted by friend and fellow Abenaki members Bill and Sherry Gould about how to bring the game closer to home. With the help of MKIM Executive Director Andy Bullock, the very first MKIM Snow Snake game was set in motion in 2022. Darryl shared the nervous-excitement he felt on the first day of the event, when the track was built,  unsure how many people, if any at all, would attend. The outpouring of community support for the event came as a pleasant surprise to Darryl, he was told that there must have been 300 people in attendance. 

Building of the track in 2021

The following day also had a substantial turnout of community members, Tribal members, and everyone in between. Darryl recalled the joyous expressions of all who attended – children learning about Native culture, people gathering around the fire and telling stories, and those fiercely competing for the much-loved prize:  maple syrup!    

A racing snake!

Following the overwhelming success of the first MKIM Snow Snake game, Bill and Darryl prepared for this year by hosting a workshop in December 2022 to create the snakes.  They typically range from 2 to 6 feet long and can be made from finding aptly sized sticks, stripping the bark, polishing them, and carving a somewhat flat “head” at the top of the snake. A well made snake will slide through the snow quickly.  A touch of uniqueness can be added by painting or burning designs into the snake.  Thanks to the workshop and the generosity of those involved, everyone who participates in the coming games will have the opportunity to throw a snake.  

Decorating of Snakes at the workshop hosted by Darryl and Bill.

This year, all are welcome to come watch or participate in the game, enjoy the fire, and walk around the Museum and gift shop (which will be open). We hope to see your smile there!