Jefferson Ballew Pokagon Band of Potawatomi

Bandolier bag, Potawatomi culture.

Ballew is a member of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi teaches how to make traditional Bandolier bags that he uses to hold all of his spiritual tools:  medicine and pipe.

"The bag tells the story of the medicine,"  Ballew said, "And tools such as flint, knives, an awl would be kept in the Bandolier bag and worn on the right side....." 

Each bag is unique, but all share the same characteristics, masterful bead work on a wide strap and bag or decorative panel.  The bags are functional and was seen as an item of prestige.  When women wore the bandolier bags in the Great Lake region, it was usually in memory of a deceased male relative.


The Morning Sun link ....(click to read the entire story)


The Bandolier Bag link