02/21/2025
"The use of the dog travois by Native American tribes predates the arrival of horses on the Northern Plains by centuries. These ingenious devices, made of wooden frames and lashed together with sinew or rawhide, were designed to be dragged by dogs, allowing tribes to transport belongings efficiently across the rugged landscape. With the introduction of horses, or ""elk dogs"" as some tribes called them, in the late 1600s, the capacity for transport and mobility greatly increased. Horses could carry heavier loads and facilitated the use of larger tipis, enhancing the nomadic lifestyle of many Plains tribes. Additionally, horses revolutionized hunting and warfare techniques, providing a strategic advantage in both pursuits.
In a photograph dating from around 1910-1920, taken by Frank Fiske of Fort Yates, North Dakota, an elderly Lakota Sioux woman, possibly named Red Thunder, is depicted holding the staff of her husband, Little Bull. Dressed in her finest regalia, she is a powerful image of cultural pride and resilience. The photograph captures a moment of tradition and heritage, symbolized by the miniature buffalo crafted and placed on the dog’s back. The detail in the image, including what appears to be a dead skunk in the travois, reflects the everyday realities and cultural practices of the time.
The significance of the dog travois and the transition to horse-drawn travois highlights the adaptability and innovation of the Plains tribes. These tools were essential for their survival and mobility, allowing them to move with the seasons and follow the bison herds that were central to their way of life. The photograph by Fiske, preserved in the Buffalo Bill Museum, offers a valuable glimpse into the lives and practices of the Lakota Sioux during a period of significant change.
Photographs and historical records like these are crucial for understanding and preserving the cultural heritage of Native American tribes. They provide insights into the daily lives, struggles, and adaptations of these communities, honoring their contributions and enduring spirit.