A historic manor in Bucks County is hosting an artistic exhibit that celebrates the rich history of the area and its first inhabitants. Peter Crimmins wrote about the exhibit for WHYY.

Pennsbury Manor, William Penn’s historic estate in Morrisville, has commissioned artist and Lenape descendant Nathan Young for an exhibit that evokes Lenni Lenape history. The exhibit is called “nkwiluntàmën: I long for it; I am lonesome for it (such as the sound of a drum).”

Young has installed noise and avant-garde music at the historic house, which is administered by the Pennsylvania Historic and Museum Commission. This aids in reflecting  the noisy history of the Lenape people.

“This is my own personal opinion, but a lot of land acknowledgments seem to be just lip service,” said Young. “But here at Pennsbury Manor, by letting me do things like this and other things that Pennsbury has done for the recognized Delaware tribes – what they do matters. It’s not just lip service.”

The artist has installed several speakers on high-backed garden benches around the residence. Each of these plays music created by several composers for the piece. In addition many large signs are painted white, black, yellow, and red. The goal is to help guide visitors on a poetic journey.

Read more about the exhibit in WHYY.

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