Treasures from Our West: Bow case and quiver

Originally featured in Points West in Winter 2008

Crow/Northern Plains bow case and quiver

Hunting was necessary on the plains. Whether the Plains Indians used bows, arrows, lances, or later with trade guns, hunting provided food and raw materials for clothing, tools, and shelter. If hunting was poor, food would be scarce, and new clothes would have to wait.

Arrows were carried in a quiver that hung from a belt or a saddle, or was worn on the back. Sometimes, especially with mounted archers, the hanging quiver also had a compartment for the bow. This bow case and quiver, ca. 1875, are made of otter hide, wool, and beads.

Bow case and quiver, Crow/Northern Plains. Adolph Spohr Collection. Gift of Larry Sheerin. NA.102.20

Post 062