The Keepers of The Sacred Tradition of Pipemakers is a non-profit organization here in Pipestone MN that is a real asset to the community as well as the world. They formed in 1996 when the local Indian community and a few other concerned tribal leaders met here in Pipestone MN. They formed to protect and educate people about this special place. The Keepers members are in 40 states, Germany, Switzerland, Canada, Sweden, Faroe Island, Australia, and most of Europe. Over 1/2 of our members are tribal members from over 35 different tribes. People choose to join for a variety of reasons, many are Pipemakers.

Keepers continue to bring international and national recognition to Pipestone and Pipestone National Monument. They have presented a positive image of Tribal people to our town and county as well as the world. When they attend conferences, workshops, shows, pow wows and other events throughout the US and Europe. Bud Johnston the Keepers President has helped organize and take American Indian dance groups to many European countries. It is a great opportunity for the young American Indian people to learn more about the world, to share their Tribal culture and allow the Tribal youth to show the world who they are. Through education and sharing we see diversity dissolving not only among ourselves but through-out the world.

The Keepers reach out to others when they worked with the Sioux falls Indian center to collect goods to help Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota after the tornado went through Ogallala. They filled 2 semi’s full of much needed clothing and food. Separately Keepers bought and sent hand tools to a youth group helping folks rebuild their homes in Ogallala. The Keepers also collect clothing, blankets, soaps and towels for the battered women’s shelter at Red Cliff Reservation in Wisconsin. Keepers donated their time and resources to work with Title IX grant for Tribal kids in the Pipestone school district. They loaned them use of space, supplies and computer internet hookup. Keepers offer support to people on an individual basis as the need arises.

The Keepers work with schools and prisons to help people understand Tribal culture. They work with Flandreau Indian School by providing cultural classes to the students there throughout the year. They give pipes, one per institution, to be used as part of their ceremonies. Some of their members work as VIPs “ Volunteers IN Corrections” in various prisons around the country. When a prison does not have someone to help the American Indian inmates with their ceremonies Keepers help in the process of finding someone qualified.