Michael Parlante was a music student of Frank James from elementary through high school. They formed a long friendship that went beyond the mentor/student relationship. Michael learned about Wampanoag culture and history from Frank and they often went out exploring together. Michael Parlante’s collection of Native artifacts is currently featured in the first room of the Museum. In 1970, as the 350th anniversary of the Pilgrim landing approached, Frank James, a member of the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah), was invited by Gov. Frank Sargent to write and give a speech at the ceremony. But when James shared his speech with state officials, he was told it was too aggressive and extreme. They asked him to read a statement written by a public relations professional. James refused. To read the Cape Cod article, please click on the link here: National Day of Mourning. To read Frank James speech please click on this link: speech