ABOUT THE WAMPUM BELT

Arthur Einhorn (1934-2017) was an anthropologist who focused his research on the culture of Native Americans in northern New York. The Iroquois Collection, housed in Special Collections at the Owen D. Young Library, includes his notes, papers, and journal entries that reflect his studies, as well as this replica wampum belt.

Wampum belts represent an important tradition of the people of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) nations. In the past, the best were constructed by drilling and stringing beads crafted from shells onto string or pieces of bark. This replica uses plastic beads made from the outer coverings of insulated wire. Wampum belts were more than a piece of craftsmanship but rather played a ceremonial and diplomatic role in culture and history by marking the negotiation of treaties, documenting history, and signifying truth and honor.

This belt consists of two figures made of black beads standing on opposite sides of the belt. On the left, there are three purple beads woven into the black figure. The figure on the right has white beads in its middle section. Each has two short legs, one arm stretched to the side, and another arm that is connected to the other figure, stretching across the belt. The original belt, created in 1758, was used as an invitation when the Haudenosaunee people were negotiating a treaty with the council of Philadelphia. The belt was used to seek peace and understanding between the French and the English, who were fighting to take control of the Iroquois fur trade. The belt was an attempt to find common ground and harmony.

The replica does not have a specific purpose in negotiating or communicating, but it is an appreciation of the craft of the wampum belts and the culture they come from. It sheds light on the significance and craft of this intricate Iroquois practice. -Ella D’Andreano

 

Arthur Einhorn
Gov. Denny Belt, replica wampum belt, c. 1970s, after original belt made in 1758
Plastic/rubber wire casing woven with leather
Arthur Einhorn Iroquois Collection, Box #18
Special Collections
Owen D. Young Library
St. Lawrence University
Canton, NY