Tattoos have served as powerful forms of expression and identification across cultures for centuries. For the Cherokee people, particularly before the formal written language, tattoos held significant cultural weight. They were more than mere decoration; they were badges of honor, markers of identity, and participants in sacred ceremonies. While detailed documentation of these practices remains limited, the traditions endure through the knowledge and dedication of cultural experts.
In this article, we explore the fascinating world of traditional Cherokee tattoos through insights from Mike Crowe, a respected Atsila Anotasgi Cultural Specialist at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. His expertise sheds light on the historical practices, meanings, and contemporary relevance of Cherokee body art.
Delving into Traditional Cherokee Tattoo Practices
Historical Significance and Meanings
Historically, tattoos among Cherokee people were deeply intertwined with societal roles and achievements. As Mike Crowe explains, “Applying marks to our bodies that means something is universal in the world.” For Cherokee men, tattoos were earned, particularly in wartime scenarios. These markings, along with hairstyles and ear lobe piercings, acted as visual indicators of status and accomplishments, akin to military honors. They were a language beyond words, communicating complex narratives of an individual’s journey and standing within the community.
Creation Techniques and Materials
The artistry of Cherokee tattoos involved natural materials and skilled techniques. Needles were crafted from copper or bone, with some accounts suggesting the use of locust thorns, prepped with oils to manage their irritant properties. Ink was derived primarily from charred river birch, a natural astringent, limiting the color palette mainly to black and red. Red hues were achieved using iron ochre, abundant in the mineral-rich lands of Cherokee, North Carolina. This ochre, essentially iron oxide from underground deposits, provided a natural and locally sourced pigment.
To further understand these traditional methods, the Museum of the Cherokee Indian hosted a tattooing demonstration by Warren Taylor of the Pamunkey nation, a descendant of Powhatan and Pocahontas. Taylor showcased the process using a copper conduit needle, applying tattoos to demonstrate historical techniques. Mike Crowe himself received a traditional band tattoo on his leg during this demonstration, mirroring designs from the Mississippian period iconography.
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Sacredness and Symbolism
The question of whether tattooing was considered a sacred practice is nuanced. Mike Crowe believes it held sacred aspects, stating, “I think it could be. It was in some regards. I suppose that’s kind of left up to individual discretion nowadays.” The designs themselves often carried symbolic weight, drawing inspiration from both the natural world and Cherokee cosmology.
Popular Traditional Cherokee Tattoo Designs
Traditional Cherokee tattoo designs are rich in symbolism, often reflecting elements of nature, weaponry, and spiritual beliefs. Spearheads and arrow points, depicted as deltoid points in tattoos, were common motifs. Crowe explains these designs “can serve as a reminder of the right way,” suggesting a moral or directional symbolism.
Designs also incorporated elements from the surrounding environment: lightning, animals like large cats and bears, and even animal features like cat whiskers and bear claws. Warriors believed that by wearing bear claw symbols, they could embody the animal’s strength and characteristics in battle. Furthermore, designs from other art forms, such as pottery and basketry, and even masks, were adapted and translated into tattoo art, showcasing a holistic integration of Cherokee artistic expression.
Sharing the Stories: Tattoo Meanings and Cultural Preservation
Mike Crowe approaches inquiries about his own traditional Cherokee tattoos with openness, viewing it as part of his role as a cultural specialist. “It’s part of what I do. I don’t feel any kind of way about it. I give people varying lengths of info on the practice, and why I have the markings that I do. I’m trying to carry that part of our culture on as well, and starting from the ground up, because there’s not a lot of information out there.” This willingness to share helps bridge the knowledge gap and ensures the continuation of these cultural practices.
Crowe’s personal tattoos include deltoid points, a Maltese cross-like design, a mountain design, and a lightning motif, illustrating the diverse range of symbols within Cherokee tattoo traditions. While his first tattoo at 18 was part of military culture, his journey into traditional Cherokee tattoos began later, driven by his cultural work.
Visiting the Museum of the Cherokee Indian
For those eager to learn more about Cherokee culture and potentially meet experts like Mike Crowe, the Museum of the Cherokee Indian is an invaluable resource. The Atsila Anotasagi Cultural Specialists are often available outside the museum on pleasant days or inside the lobby, demonstrating and sharing various facets of Cherokee heritage. Visiting the museum offers a direct connection to Cherokee culture and provides an opportunity to engage with these living traditions.
Conclusion:
Cherokee Indian tattoos are a vibrant thread in the rich tapestry of Native American culture. They are more than skin deep; they represent a profound connection to history, identity, and spirituality. Through the dedication of cultural specialists like Mike Crowe and institutions like the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, these traditions continue to be preserved and shared, ensuring that the stories etched in skin resonate for generations to come.
