KEEPER OF THE PLAINS Tracing the span of all human history the closest kinship that has existed between man and beast would undeniably be that of the Native American and the buffalo. So sacred was this relationship that when interviewed by a reporter a warrior of the northern plains was quoted saying “the great Father of Life who made us and gave us this land to live upon, made the buffalo…to afford us sustenance.” At the dawn of European arrival herds of buffalo covered the face of North America. Its numbers estimated upwards to one hundred million. Although the quantity of the herds were plentiful Native Americans learned to be very thorough with the buffalo after a kill. In fact there was almost no part that the Plains Indian nations did not use. As for the edible usages of the buffalo the tongue, meat and liver were main staples in their diets as well as a high-energy pulp called pemmican that was made from dried meat and berries. Hooves were boiled down to make glue. Hides had many purposes; tepee covers, blankets, leggings, robes, dresses, moccasins, shields, and drums. The stomachs were used as water pouches and cooking pots. The tendons and sinews were used for bows and sewing thread. Horns were used for cups, spoons, ladles, and headdresses. Bones were used as utensils, tools, knives, and arrowheads. Even the dung was used for fuel. It is no wonder why the famous Oglala Sioux chief Red Cloud said that the buffalo “…was a sacred gift from the Creator.” As described with the heartfelt words of America’s first people there was no other way to define this sacred relationship except that it was graciously bestowed upon them from the hand of God Almighty. In His kindness and perfect provision, He not only gifted Native Americans with the buffalo to sustain them, but like the buffalo He willingly gave His life for all nations. Truly and forever He is Keeper of the Plains. Sale Price:  $175.00 to $110.00

FOUNDING FATHERS (Chief Joseph, Sitting Bull, Geronimo, Red Cloud) Mount Rushmore is an unmistakable symbol of American pride and strength. Ironically, sculptor Gutzon Borglum chose a most unusual location to begin the momentous task of carving the portraits of four famous American presidents. Mount Rushmore resides within the boundaries of Harney National Forest and Custer State Park. Both General William S. Harney and General George Armstrong Custer led expeditions into the Black Hills, directly violating government treaties signed with the Sioux. Sadly, these were two of the most detestable people in Sioux history. What adds to this irony can be found in Borglum’s inspiration to carve the colossal memorial. According to him, the presidents he chose to depict embodied what he believed to be the cornerstone of this country, that “man has a right to be free and happy.” Remorsefully, this sentiment was never extended to the original occupants of the Black Hills; the Sioux. The famous Fort Laramie Treaty of 1868, signed by both General Sherman and General Harney, stated that the Great Sioux reservation would be “set apart for the undisturbed used of the Indians” and that “…the United States now solemnly agrees that no persons…shall ever be permitted to pass over, settle upon or reside in the territory.” Ultimately, the meaning of the word “freedom” was defined differently by the United States government and the Native Americans. When this word is put in its proper context, it becomes easy to see why famous Indian leaders, such as Chief Joseph, Sitting Bull, Geronimo, and Red Cloud are admired as those that fought for their people’s freedom and way of life. As the Mount Rushmore image of our founding fathers stands in the forefront of our consciousness, let us make room for some other well-deserved historical figures. May we allow our history to tell their story as well. Sale Price:  $175.00 to $110.00