Upriver to Morning is a teaching story, with original songs, that weaves inter-generational themes within the context of Salmon’s year-long journey from the Pacific Ocean to the Rogue River’s source at Boundary Springs. The narrative is rooted in universal life lessons that deepen our capacity for compassion, our sense of belonging, and our connection to nature. There is strong interest in this program from schoolteachers, reading specialists, parents, and educators who have seen the curriculum content, participated in its development, or hosted Upriver to Morning storytelling sessions in their classrooms. The story is inspired by the teachings of Takelma elder, Agnes Baker Pilgrim (1924–2019), a registered elder of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians.

Upriver to Morning author and project manager, Tish McFadden, is a former professional archaeologist and anthropologist who met Agnes Baker Pilgrim in the 1980s while working to protect the prehistoric sites, artifacts, and cultural features of her Takelma ancestors in the Rogue River watershed.

The Upriver to Morning professional team includes a literacy specialist, curriculum specialist, illustrator, recording engineer, book designer, editors, filmmakers, a webmaster, and native cultural consultants.

Tish has beta-tested her pioneering program at various grade levels and summer camps. She has presented to retirement centers, libraries, historical societies, and other public gatherings. Her original story and songs, interwoven with Grandma Aggie’s Indigenous teachings, continually receive enthusiastic responses from all ages.

For more information, please visit: www.uprivertomorning.com