Indian War Bonnets

War Bonnets And Headdresses

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Understanding Headdresses And War Bonnets

Headdresses and war bonnets are likely the most universally recognized symbol of the American Indian. While not every Native American Nation wore feathered headdresses, in many of the tribes around the western plains of America they were commonly used. Hand crafted with tall feathers and skillfully decorated, this headgear was considered something of great honor to have one and great power was attributed to them. Different articles from various scared animals were used in making them such as fur, hide, leather and feathers. Many Native Americans believe that the power of these various animals can be transferred through the great spirit to those who wear this headgear. There are different kinds of headdresses just like there are different kinds of pipes and necklaces. Chiefs and high ranking medicine men of certain tribes were only allowed to wear certain types as great power and wisdom is assigned to them. Generally speaking, the long headdress that comes almost to the ground are the types worn by these leaders. Although we think of Headdresses today with the long feathers, early tribes in New England, and many other tribes often wore headdresses made with carved wood and other articles of importance. Such headdresses were not normally worn for every day activity but reserved for special occasions and ceremonies.

Types of Headdresses

Trailer War Bonnet: The Trailer War Bonnet is the long halo front feathered headdress with feathers running all the way down in the back. Sometimes these were shorter only going half way down in the back.

Halo War Bonnet: The halo war bonnet is likely the most well known with feathers fanning out at an angle to the back.

Straight Feathered War Bonnet: There were a number of tribes that liked their feathers going straight up.

Roach Headdresses: This is a thin strip headdress that goes over the top of the head much like a Mohawk often made from porcupine.

Basket Headdress: Rocky Mountain Native Americans often wore headdresses made from straw baskets.

Buffalo Horn Headdress: The buffalo horn headdress is a shaggy head top with horns which was and is still common.

Headbands: Both males and females worse various types of headbands.

Fur Turbans: Many tribes preferred fur type turbans which would keep their head warm.

Aztec Fan Feathers: Aztec headgear usually used one row of feathers that went straight up across the top of the head.

WB 030-17
Halo War Bonnet: Black Cock feather warbonnet
Handcrafted from Black Cock Feather, Dyed Fabric, beadwork and suede.
Two tone black feathers with contrasting white fur makes this very sharp. (Non Indian made) $89.00