Men's Moccasins
(Comanche), c. 1885
Deer skin, glass beads
On loan courtesy of The Children's Museum of Indianapolis.79.39.5.1-2

Moccasins
The moccasin fit itself to the shape of our feet and allowed our feet to feel the shape of the land. [It] allowed us to touch the earth, whereas the shoes we wear today shield us from the concrete, and the concrete in turn shields us from the earth - so we are doubly removed from the earth's surface.

Gerald McMaster, 1994

Cultural Identity
Among Native Americans, clothing was an expression of how they felt about themselves and about the world. It told people who saw them their age, status, community, and religion. Clothing, too, was a form of visual prayer. Today, Many Native Americans still wear elements, like these Plains moccasins or Woodland garters, that celebrate their heritage.

Creations Journey, 1996

Back to Introduction