Jessica Marie Swager is a Yosemite National Park local, born and raised just outside the gates in Midpines, CA. Here in Yosemite the spirits of her Southern Sierra Miwok ancestry are strong. Jessica takes great pride in her Native American lineage and is committed to keeping their traditions alive. Although other skills have been passed down to Jessica, it became clear she was a natural basket weaver. Jessica learned the art of Pine needle basketry from her grandmother and continues to honor her heritage by following in her ancestor’s footsteps. Her baskets are not just a piece of art - they are a piece of history that keeps the spirit of Native Americans alive.