Wassama Roundhouse

Wassama means leaves falling in the language of the Southern Sierra Miwuk, whom both plaques here call Miwok. A roundhouse was customarily burned when a leader died, but when Chief Peter Westfall died in 1924 the 1903 house was left standing at his request, and dances went on in it until the land was sold out of Native ownership in 1952. The state acquired it in 1978 and the house was rebuilt in 1985 for Miwuk and Yokuts people. The Clampers' 1986 plaque says the ceremonies ended in 1937; the state's of 1992 says they continue.

What the plaque says

Wassama Village The village of Wassama (leaves falling) is the site of the last above ground southern Miwok roundhouse built in 1903. Religious ceremonies, dancing and gambling took place on the site until 1937. Southern Miwok dances, including the 1870 Ghost Dance, are known to have been performed in the roundhouse. The village also contains a cemetery, cremation site and mourning area. Originally the Miwok practiced cremation, but this was later discouraged by Spanish padres and ground burial was encouraged. Dedicated October 11, 1986 by E Clampus Vitus Grub Gulch Chapter 41-49 Wassama Roundhouse Dating prior to the 1860s, the Wassama Roundhouse was reconstructed in 1985 on the location of the previous four houses. In 1903, the third roundhouse was built using portions of the center pole from the two earlier houses. The roundhouse served as the focal point of spiritual and ceremonial life for many Native Californians. The Wassama Roundhouse continues to serve this purpose. California Registered Historical Landmark No. 1001 Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with Grub Gulch Chapter 41-49, E Clampus Vitus, May 16, 1992.

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Mormon Bar — 14 mi
• Mariposa County Courthouse — 16 mi
• Agua Fria — 17 mi
• Site of Savage's Trading Post — 21 mi