AMERICAN INDIANS.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLVII, Issue 57, 4 February 1927, Page 8

AMERICAN INDIANS.

PASS THROUGH PALMERSTON

NORTH. AN INTERESTING PARTY. A great deal of interest was evinced in a number of American Indians who passed through Palmerston North tins morning by the south-bound Main Trunk tram, the party being en route from Auckland to Wellington. the visitors, who are under the supervision of Mr Franklyn Barrett whilst in New Zealand, were originally brought out from their native coifntry to Australia for the purpose ol taking part m the moving picture, “The Yanisnmg Race,” which is now on the Commonwealth circuits.

Chief Seump-te-wa was the main personage of tho party, which comprised eight Hopi and two Navajo Indians, ino visitors, who included two children, were attired in the picturesque dress of their respective tribes, with leathered headgear and beaded ornamentations, and as a result a small crowd soon gathered on the station platform to gain a glimpse of such an unusual party.

A “Standard” reporter, conversing with Air Barrett, was informed that several of the Indians could speak excellent English. They were enjoying their trip overseas immensely.

“We have had a wonderful time at Rotorua,” said Air Barrett, who explained that the Maoris had extended an invitation to the party to visit the thermal regions, ‘‘it was an historical gathering up there with only three ..line men present, and, personally, I must say that, although I have travelled in all parts of file world, it was the greatest revelation ono could wish to see.”

Continuing the conversation Air Barrett referred briefly to Palmerston North’s progress. ‘‘lt is now twelve years since f last visited this town and oimng through the Square I was immediately impressed with the advancement shown,” he said.