Native American Regalia

The Northeastern Pennsylvania region has a rich history of Native American tribes.  There are a number of Pow Wows held each year in our area.  I had a chance to attend the Inter-Tribal Native American Pow Wow in Drums, PA this past weekend, where beautiful regalia could be seen everywhere.

Let me be clear--these are not "costumes."  Regalia, which can be very elaborate, are very unique to the individual.  They signify the spirit and soul of the culture.  Each Pow Wow dancer reflects not only tribal history, but also their own personal style.

There are a number of accessories that are worn or carried as part of the regalia.  These items can reveal family heritage, tribal affiliation, spiritual quests, or may have been a gift to the dancer by other members of their group. Some of the items may be "earned" by completing tribal milestones.

Many women carry shawls. The shawl is traditionally carried over the left arm.

Powwows are intertribal social gatherings. Begun in the 1880's, they became an important way for Native Americans  to stay connected to their tribal cultures and identities. This was at a time when Indians were experiencing great upheavals in their communities, due to the assimilation era, when tribes were forced onto reservations.

Participation is a family event, with a variety of age groups taking part.  I am always happy to see the young people at a Pow Wow. I believe that tradition is very important, and to have this rich heritage practiced and handed down is a beautiful thing indeed. (Click on small gallery images above to enlarge.)

For Native American people, everything has spiritual meaning even in the context of the modern world, and especially when it comes to the expression of culture and identity.

For dancers, not only is the act of dancing that expression, but the wearing of dance regalia is the visible manifestation of one's heritage. A dancer's regalia is one of the most powerful symbols of his or her Native identity and in that regard it can be considered sacred.

This is one reason why it is incorrect to refer to dance regalia as a "costume." Many of the elements that make up a dance outfit are items often associated with the ceremonial function, such as eagle feathers and parts, animal hides, items that have been handed down through generations, as well as designs that may have been handed down or were given in dreams and visions. (Source: Native-Languages.org)

(Click on small gallery images above to enlarge.)

I am, of course, fascinated with the men's regalia.  Bustle's can be quite elaborate.  Some carry shields.  There are dance sticks.  Buckskin is quite common.

The women's hair beads and embroidered regalia patterns are quite beautiful, as the string of photos below clearly shows.

Pow Wow gatherings often honor many, including veterans and POWs, families, and our own connections to mother earth.  The dances reflect different cultures and subjects.

One of my favorites involves the jingle dress.  A very healing dance, the jingle dance is associated with sending healing vibes to someone who is ill. 

Below is a small gallery of other dance images. (Click on images to enlarge.)

I would encourage everyone to find a Pow Wow in your area and attend.  There is so much to be learned and shared.  There is much to see and understand.  Besides the lovely dancing and regalia, there are vendors and craftsmen.

And finally, some images to end the day.

I was entranced for most of the day by the regalia at this particular Pow Wow.  All were colorful and beautiful.  My favorite overall, and from a photographer's standpoint, would be the regalia worn by the head male dancer.  With that in mind, I created the final painted portrait of him in action below.

I invite my Native American friends to comment and provide more insight into their regalia, and/or anything you think we need to know.  I hope you enjoyed this blog!