Because the language lacks consistent written records and was considered lost by the middle of the 1970s, Smith is building a standardized writing system from scratch. He spends hours each night archiving thousands of words, relying on short lists from tribal elders in Oklahoma and old audio recordings dating back to the 1910s to piece the vocabulary together.

The process requires translating highly complex grammatical structures where single words function as entire descriptive phrases. For example, the Wyandot word for blackberry translates roughly to “they all have little black eyes.” Through this work, Smith is preserving the worldview of his tribe, noting that the language contains no direct translations for concepts like absolute evil or arrogant pride. To make the language accessible to new learners, he is also creating practical pronunciation guides for unique vowel sounds.

Smith actively passes this reclaimed heritage down to the next generation to help ground those who feel disconnected from their Native identity. He and his wife spent seven years teaching the Wyandot language at an Oklahoma elementary school, successfully using music and song to help young students memorize new words. Whether he is sculpting his famous traditional pottery, hosting workshops with traditional meals, or leading group social dances, Smith continues to forge a living link between his ancestors and the future of the Wyandot Nation.

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