Acorn Granary: Suunanu (Mono)

Suunanu (Mono). The acorn granary was used to protect this important staple from the elements and animals. Additionally, the tribes dedicated a substantial amount of time for acorn collection, storage and processing. A basket was woven loosely and placed on a platform above the ground. The granaries were filled with acorns in the fall and the supply was drawn out as needed. The acorns of the black and white oak are valued the highest for their mild flavor. In times of scarcity acorns of other oaks were used and even nuts of the buckeye.

Acorns were a staple for the indigenous community for thousands of years. Although it is no longer an everyday food item, it is still important in maintaining the cultural connection to the traditions of the tribes passed down by the ancestors. This granary was constructed by a local family from the North Fork Rancheria of the Mono Indians using traditional practices and materials. . This historical marker is in Oakhurst in Madera County California