Morning Star question

[jenny]

Hi all,

The Cheyenne tribal symbol is the morning star, which is seen on the Cheyenne warrior markers at Little Bighorn battlefield. BUT...these markers look as though two peace pipes have been added in the design. Is this the case?

Thanks,

Jenny

[Californian]

I saw that too, on the monuments it is unmistakably two pipes, whereas the official tribal seal of the Northern Cheyenne nation seemingly does not have that particular feature.

[wambli ahitunwan]

Photos of both would be helpful in understanding your comments. Just saying. A picture is often worth more than a thousand words.

[Californian]

good point, thanks for suggestion it

here you go (click onto images to enlarge)

seal of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe


tombstone of a Cheyenne warrior at the Greasy Grass Battlefield

Jul 25, 2023 18:01:54 GMT -5 wambli ahitunwan said:

Photos of both would be helpful in understanding your comments. Just saying. A picture is often worth more than a thousand words.

[wambli ahitunwan]

Thank you for responding to my request.

[rodthomas]

I'll ask my contact at the National Monument for any information there.

[rodthomas]

So, my friend in this case is John Doerner, former Little Bighorn National Park Historian who was responsible for starting and emplacing the warrior markers. Here's what John says about the Cheyenne markers. "Hau Kola Rod, Thanks for your email regarding the Northern Cheyenne symbol placed on the Cheyenne warrior markers. I worked closely in consultation along with Neil and my Cheyenne Brothers including Clifford Eagles Feather. Clifford arranged a special design contest with students at Dull Knife College. Various designs were submitted including Buffalo skulls, and Buffalo. The best and most appropriate design was selected based on the Northern Cheyenne Tribe Morning Star design, however the two pipes were added to honor both the warriors and spiritual men of the tribe who’s lives were embraced with the importance of daily prayer and connection to the creator thru the peace pipe!

The design is very powerful and should be adopted by the tribe for their flag and tribal symbol. The early morning star was actually circular."


So, there you have it...and please be respectful in talking about or in using the design without permission...John was also instrumental in the placement of markers for the three Arikara men killed...plus his help with the Crow scouts was essential. Please have a grand night.

[Californian]

thank you Rod, much appreciated and always grateful to learn.

[rodthomas]

You are most welcome. I only knew some of the details and was grateful to John for the rest. Sometimes you just go to a place and sit down and listen and soon, some stranger will stop and listen with you. Lots of good things learned that way. All best and take care...

[jenny]

This is a great story. Thank you and John for the explanation.

Jenny