A Celebration of Culture and Heritage
In her personal life, Lisa is married to her manager and long-time business partner, Robert McFall Jr. A self-taught jeweler with over 50 years of experience, Robert plays a pivotal role as Lisa’s manager and advisor. Revered as a “watchtower” for his beloved wife, Robert has been instrumental in supporting Lisa’s endeavors, ensuring her work and legacy are upheld with care and dedication.
Lisa Groundhog McFall has also achieved a rare honor in Native American culture: the title of “beloved woman,” a distinction bestowed as the highest form of recognition. This title reflects her extraordinary contributions and the respect she commands within her community and beyond.
Her significance extends beyond personal accolades. Lisa is represented on the United States Commemorative Silver Dollar, featured alongside Sequoyah. On the reverse of this coin, Lisa symbolizes the continuation of her ancestry’s profound impact, carrying forward the story and achievements of her family.
The Comanche Little Ponies’ 55th annual celebration will take place on Friday, May 9th, and Saturday, May 10th. This vibrant event will run from 12 noon to midnight on both days, offering a rich tapestry of cultural festivities that honor Native traditions and community spirit. It promises to be a gathering full of reflection, celebration, and unity, as attendees come together to embrace their shared heritage and honor figures like Lisa Groundhog McFall.
Lisa Groundhog McFall’s influence extends into the arts through her founding of Blue Wolf Designs, which has become the flagship for both her creative endeavors and Brothers Fine Jewelers, established by her husband, Robert McFall Jr. Together, this dynamic duo shares a passion for tribal preservation and the safeguarding of Native American languages, offering their unique insights and wisdom at the Comanche Little Ponies Event.
Lisa, a fluent speaker of both Cherokee and English, exemplifies the rare and vital connection to Native American linguistic heritage, showcasing how these languages continue to enrich cultural identity. Her commitment to tradition is further embodied in her birthright in the Keetoowah Nighthawk Society, a lineage traced to the prestigious 44 roll.
Attendees of this year’s celebration will have the exceptional opportunity to interact with Lisa and Robert McFall Jr. as they share their dedication to preserving Native traditions and honoring their shared heritage. This Mother’s Day weekend, join the festivities at the Comanche County Fairgrounds, located at 920 S. Sheridan Rd., Lawton, Oklahoma, 73505. The event promises a heartfelt celebration of history, culture, and community, offering moments that are sure to inspire and resonate deeply with all who attend.
Lowell Nibbs: Chairman of the Comanche Little Ponies
Preserving Tradition, Celebrating Heritage
Lowell Nibbs, the distinguished Chairman of the Comanche Little Ponies, expresses profound gratitude and pride in holding this esteemed position. He regards membership in the Little Ponies as a privilege, emphasizing that serving as Chairman further elevates this distinction. “It is an honor to be a part of the Little Ponies,” Mr. Nibbs remarked. “But it is an even greater honor when you say you are the chairman.”
The Comanche Little Ponies are a traditional warrior society, deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Comanche people. The annual powwow serves as a vital celebration of the society and the broader Comanche community. Mr. Nibbs underscored the significance of this event by stating, “That we are still here after all this time is a testament to our resilience, but it is also a celebration of the Comanche people. The society belongs to the Comanche people, and through this event, we honor our traditions and ways.”
Honoring Mother’s Day
An integral aspect of the powwow is its observance of Mother’s Day, often referred to as the Mother’s Day Dance. This tradition reflects the society’s commitment to honoring the invaluable role of mothers within the community. Mr. Nibbs expressed his admiration by noting, “We honor all of the mothers who are present today.” This thoughtful inclusion contributes to the event’s heartfelt and meaningful atmosphere.
Musical Traditions of the Society
Music occupies a central role in the cultural practices of the Comanche Little Ponies, with several songs uniquely dedicated to the society. These compositions, performed annually, encapsulate the values and spirit of the Little Ponies. Among these, Mr. Nibbs particularly cherishes a song honoring mothers. “Mr. Gaylin Motaw composed and gifted a song to the Little Ponies, which we perform every year,” Mr. Nibbs explained. “He personally attends to sing it, and it belongs to our society.”
Further enriching the musical traditions, the Little Ponies include a gourd dance song and a war dance song, which exemplify the society’s warrior roots and ceremonial heritage. These songs are regarded as an integral component of the cultural legacy.
Inductions and Membership
The induction of new members into the Comanche Little Ponies is a meticulously considered process, aimed at sustaining the society’s traditions and values. Mr. Nibbs acknowledged the aging membership and the need to involve younger generations. Membership is extended to individuals, irrespective of Comanche descent, who exemplify integrity and align with the society’s ethos.
“Once you join the society, you represent the society,” Mr. Nibbs stated. “Members are expected to lead an upstanding life, refraining from activities such as drinking or smoking. It is about how you conduct yourself. We evaluate an individual’s character and familial background. Upon consensus among current members, an invitation to join the society may be extended.”
A Celebration of Cultural Heritage
Under the leadership of Lowell Nibbs, the Comanche Little Ponies continue to exemplify the resilience and pride of the Comanche people. Through the annual powwow, the society celebrates its traditions, honors its members, and fosters unity within the community. With its comprehensive blend of cultural festivities, musical heritage, and the recognition of familial values, the event stands as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit and legacy of the Comanche Little Ponies.
