The National Historic Interpretive Trails Center here in Casper offered a presentation where Mr. LeClair spoke about some of the traditions of his people and the importance of the warrior in the Shoshone culture. It was all very interesting.
These are some of the props he brought along with him which included a couple of headdresses, a blanket, a buffalo skull, dance stick, Indian flag, drum, etc.
This is the headdress worn by an Indian "pony soldier". Pony soldiers were unarmed and always went in peace to find hunting and campground areas for their tribe.
This is a full war bonnet...
This is a dance stick or also called an eagle stick...
This is an Indian flag...
These men who were attending the presentation today were being honored as war veterans since today was Veteran's Day while the Indian Flag Song was being played.
He then sang us an Indian song that was sung when the warriors left the camp. It was sung until they could no longer be seen and was then sung again when the returning warriors were returning home.
And here we are having our picture taken with Mr LeClaire...
Other facts discussed today:
- It was more of an honor to touch your enemy until the count of two and move on, than it was to kill him;
- Because there are eagle feathers on the headdress and flag stick, Mr. LeClair has to carry a permit with him at all times since it is against the law to kill an eagle;
- The Shoshone Indians got horses around 1700 as a trade from the Comanche Indians. Until that time they had none which made it impossible for them to hunt buffalo and migrate around the country. Because of this reason, they were called "digger" Indians or Sheepeaters.
- The number one is pronounced "Sima" (see-ma), but is spelled "Simuh".
What a cool way to spend Veteran's's DAy!
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