Cheyenne Beaded Hide Tobacco Bag, with Documentation

Cheyenne Beaded Hide Tobacco Bag, with Documentation

fourth quarter 19th century

sinew-sewn and beaded using colors of pony trader blue, green, red white-heart, and greasy yellow

overall length 16-1/2 inches

Included is a copy of a handwritten note:

Dear Lynn,

This pipe bag belonged to "Two Moons" and was used by him during the last years of his life. It was given to me by "Little Whirlwind" the last of his many wives.

Two Moons was the war chief of the Cheyenne Indians and led them in Custer's battle. He could have without doubt given an authentic account of the battle; but repeated efforts on the part of government officials, historians and curious people were fruitless.

I was his physician during the last year of his life and had many interesting talks with him.

I once asked him if he know who shot "Yellow Hair" (Custer) and he answered "yes," farther than that I never got. He would talk by the hour of Indian legends, superstitions, etc. and seem to enjoy it - but of Custer's Battle, never. He was past 90 at his death and his mind was unusually clear to the last. I considered him much above the average Indian intellectually --

I thought you might like to hear this on account of its historical connection. Wishing you a Merry X-mas.

Love as Ever,
H. Clay Mark

Donated in 1926.

This lot is located in Cincinnati.
Native American & Prehistoric Art
Hide has been conditioned at some point. Hide is a little stiff, but pliable. Couple tears and pin holes on throat. Light scattered bead loss.
Deaccessioned from the Henry County Historical Society, Indiana in 2012