The choice of the primary material was obvious, one that was both of spiritual significance, beautiful, and available: Michigan white cedar from right here on Beaver Island. Luckily there was a craftsman living in the township who specialized in unique custom work involving this richly-grained wood, Dan Gentle.

Once he was given the program, the list of artifacts to be housed and their measurements, he threw himself into the task of designing the right enclosure, and then building it in the wood shop he’s assembled in his home on Paid een Og’s Road. It would not be right to say that what he came up with exceeded everyone’s expectations, because we’ve seen him craft some amazing things, but the result was definitely breathtaking. The arrangement of grain patterns is exquisite, the overall shape is reminiscent of art nouveau, it was reasonably priced, and the LED lighting will not degrade its contents.

The finished case, pictured above, conveys a sense of being appropriate: it could have been passed down with the artifacts it currently contains, and those yet to be delivered. Best of all, it perfectly symbolizes the commitment Peaine Township has made to match the concerns of Chief Peaine and his people for being good stewards of this sacred land we now call home.