
Treasures from Our West: beaded pin
Originally featured in Points West in Fall 2008
Native American Church beaded pin
The Native American Church combines elements of traditional tribal religions and Christianity. Developed during the 1890s, this religious movement continues to be an important force in the lives of many Plains Indian people.
This intricate Northern Cheyenne ceremonial fan-shaped pin with blue, black, and white beads, and leather, ca. 1950, would have been worn to a Native American Church meeting. Other objects used in such gatherings included decorated fans, rattles, staffs, and hand-carved, painted boxes used to carry the accoutrements.
Beaded Native American Church pin. 2 x 2.5 inches. Anne Black Collection. NA.502.47.4
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Written By
Nancy McClure
Nancy now does Grants & Foundations Relations for the Center of the West's Development Department, but was formerly the Content Producer for the Center's Public Relations Department, where her work included writing and updating website content, publicizing events, copy editing, working with images, and producing the e-newsletter Western Wire. Her current job is seeking and applying for funding from government grants and private foundations. In her spare time, Nancy enjoys photography, reading, flower gardening, and playing the flute.