Long before books were made the history and rules of man were taught by the older members of society. The inquiring minds of youth sought to learn about their way of life and how thing came to be a part of their way of life. Thus the stories of the elders were far more than amusements. They taught the history of the group and the traditions that guided their behavior, thoughts, and way of life. These stories sought to explain the tribal way of life and view others as family and promote harmony with the group. They were also shared with those they met including the explorers and settlers who later came. Sweet Tree Water is but one such story. An Iroquois legend passed down through the generations and celebrated with the Maple Festival of the Iroquois nation as it thanks the Great Spirit for the wonderful gift she showed Moqua and Little Squirrel.