Name/Title
"Indian Pipes and Their Meaning"Entry/Object ID
Q1430.635.1ADescription
Article written by Agnes C. Laut about Native American pipes and their meaning. Undated.
Vol II pg. 1A
Agnes C. Laut discusses the cultural significance of pipes to Native American tribes. It explains how pipes, adorned with eagle feathers, were used in ceremonies related to peace and war. Different tribes crafted pipes from materials like molded clay or slate pipe-stone, and these were employed in rituals to honor spirits and record deeds against enemies. The text describes the symbolic engravings on pipes, which could depict figures in conference with animals or other motifs. It mentions a particular pipe bought from a Cree individual, shaped like a war hatchet and made from galena mixed with clay. The narrative highlights that these carvings and designs hold deep meanings, such as fighting might or peace, although to outsiders, they might appear as mere decorations.Subject
Agnes C. Laut
Pipes
Cree
SiouxSubject Person/Organization
Harry L. George Collection