Featured in this lot is this Chippewa Cree Turtle Shell Hoop Dance Stick by Leonard and Laurie Many Trails, from the Many Trails Collection at the former Indian Nations Trading Post in Livingston, Montana, circa 20th century. The dance stick features a leather wrapped wood shaft decorated with blue, red, and white seed beads, Turkey feathers and Venetian trade beads and fur. A hood is attached at the top of the stick, a whole turtle shell is in the middle attached with leather thongs and bells. Chippewa (Ojibwe) dance sticks are ceremonial, handcrafted items used in powwows, dances, and spiritual practices, often symbolizing a warrior?s status or connection to the spirit world. The Chippewa Cree Tribe (Ne Hiyawak) is a federally recognized tribe based on the Rocky Boy's Reservation in north-central Montana. The tribe is a combination of the Rocky Boy's Band of Chippewas and the Little Bear Band of Cree. Formed by Chippewa (Ojibwe) and Cree peoples, the tribe is known for its strong, distinct culture, a 117,365-acre reservation established in 1916, and an economy based on agriculture and livestock. The tribe speaks Cree and Ojibwe, often referring to themselves as Ne Hiyawak ("those who speak the same language"). They share a rich heritage with strong, independent, and, in some cases, migratory traditions, especially for the Cree. The Delaware Skin Dance (sometimes called a Stick Dance) is practiced by some Chippewa/Ojibwe bands in Ontario. In the Men?s Northern Traditional Dance, a storytelling dance that honors the history of warriors and hunters, the dance stick serves several vital spiritual and cultural function. Each stick is unique and often tells a personal story or dream. They are frequently adorned with animal figures, feathers, beadwork, and leather. The dance stick is in nicely preserved condition, measures 26"L x 10.5"W x 2.5"D, weight is 10oz.

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