Native American center offers education and inspiration in updated grounds and gardens

Jun 01, 2023

Visitors can learn about plants native to California, those which are drought-tolerant, and which plants have cultural significance. | Courtesy of Carol Ferguson

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Visitors can learn about plants native to California, those which are drought-tolerant, and which plants have cultural significance. | Courtesy of Carol Ferguson

The grounds at the Nuui Cunni Native American Center have recently been updated and now provide visitors with a wealth of information about local plants and their origins. The beautiful gardens also have inspirational views of Isabella Lake and the mountains.

The Nuui Cunni Center is located in Wofford Heights at 2600 Highway 155, adjacent to the French Gulch Recreation Site, near the boat ramp.

The tour of native plants is located within a sacred circle, with numbered stones to guide visitors. Brochures will be available so visitors can identify the plants with the numbered stones. The information in the brochure will indicate whether a plant is annual, perennial, edible or has medicinal or other uses.

Visitors can learn about plants native to California, those which are drought-tolerant, and which plants have cultural significance. The peaceful grounds also include a prayer garden and a veterans' garden.

Volunteer Terri Galleon is the driving force behind the update to the grounds.

“Terri’s wealth of knowledge of native plants is helping to expand the garden, and to start teaching medicinal plant uses at the center,” volunteer Teri Whittaker said.

The Nuui Cunni building was specially designed and houses a museum with a wide variety of Native American artifacts, a library and a gift shop. There are also special displays for children to enjoy. Volunteers maintain and staff the cultural center and the grounds.

Nuui Cunni was established as a facility to display Native American crafts and art, and to promote the history of local Indian communities. The cultural center is now open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

On Wednesdays, locals meet for weekly crafts and a potluck. Everyone is welcome. Come joins us and learn how to make a pine needle basket, dream catcher or medicine bag. We also sell craft kits for these items or you're welcome to bring your own craft. The cost for craft day is $5.

The facility or grounds can be rented for special events and occasions. Please contact the center at 760-549-0800, or by email at [email protected].

The public is welcome to enjoy the updated information about native plants in the Nuui Cunni gardens. Volunteers who maintain the grounds have made a special effort to provide a unique learning opportunity.

Visitors to the area, local residents and children can enjoy the peaceful grounds and gain more understanding about the area and the plants that make it a special place.

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