Larry Dick (Warm Springs), whose Indian name is Taaw-Lee-Winch, is an elder in the Warm Springs Tribe. In his youth he became an apprentice to his uncle, Chief Nelson Wallulatum, and learned traditional Wasco songs, arts, tribal practices and rituals. Dick, who is the only tribal member to know the words of many Wasco songs, is also the eldest member of the Wasco Medicine Society Singers.
Bio
Larry Dick, known as Taaw-Lee-Winch (Tule Man), is the oldest of the Wasco Medicine Society Singers. As a young man, Taaw-Lee-Winch apprenticed with his uncle, Chief Nelson Wallulatum. With Nelson’s guidance, Taaw-Lee-Winch learned traditional Wasco songs, arts, and tribal practices and rituals, including those related to burials. He eventually became the tribal undertaker, a role that requires him to abide by strict codes, such as avoiding any contact with pregnant women and young children for a certain time period after he has handled a body. In addition to these duties, Taaw-Lee-Winch officiates at Name Givings, First Kills, First Huckleberries, and Root Feasts. He is also a master craftsman of ceremonial tule mats and the deer hoof embellished items that men wear. Since Chief Wallulatum’s death in 2010, Taaw-Lee-Winch is the only tribal member who knows the words of many Wasco songs. Taaw-lee-Winch is a great conversationalist who is pleased to share the traditional culture and the tribal history of his Wasco people.
