Properly carrying forward Osage culture requires being meticulous and mindful of what is presented. No detail is too small to overlook. Wedding coats were traditionally used for wedding ceremony, but are now utilized in paying for the drum ceremonies or given as a special gift. The original coats were actual military coats from the 1700s and are now replicated from that era.
The people of the Osage Nation have a historical and cultural relationship with bison, and bison remains an important element in Osage life. Historically, Osages had two buffalo hunts – summer and fall – which were deeply rooted in the Osage way of life. Because so much of their food, clothing and tools centered around bison, elaborate preparations would be made for the hunts. While bison hunts no longer occur, a growing and healthy bison herd on the Osage reservation is a symbolic representation of a thriving Osage Nation.
The drum is an important part of Wazhazhe Culture. The drum stands at the heart of Osage cultural activities and brings people together.
drum | 𐓊𐒷𐓐𐒷𐓁𐒻
To carry on Osage cooking traditions is an honor and Osage Cooks are held in the highest regard. Food is life-giving and brings blessings to family and friends. Whether it's during the Inlonshka, a naming, or a funeral, it's important to think good thoughts when you are preparing food for the community. You can find additional information about Osage foods in this Osage Traveling Trunk project.
Moccasins are made from tanned deer or buffalo leather and sewn with sinew. They are decorated with dye and beading. The Wahzhazhe Cultural Center holds various moccasin-making classes and instruction throughout the year. Classes will be posted on social media and the Wahzhazhe Class page.
Tom and Abby speak with language leaders within the Osage Nation. Osage Language Department Director Vann Bighorse and language teacher Celena NoEar talk about the importance and history of the Osage language. Daposka Ahnkodapi Elementary Superintendent Patrick Martin discusses their work introducing the language to the Nation’s youth. Finally, O.J. Littlecook introduces the Round Dance song.
Have you checked out the new Osage Language Dictionary? Click here and dive in!
Men's Dressing
Tom and Abby explore the Osage culture with Cultural Department Director Addie Hudgins, Osage Nation Museum Director Marla Redcorn-Miller, get a language lesson from Christopher Cote and Celena NoEar, and listen to the Inlonshka song.
