Birchbark canoe from 1921

[Benson Gray]

The postcard below is believed to show (from left to right) William Neptune (Passamaquoddy), Horace Nicholas (Passamaquoddy), Clara Neptune (Penobscot), and Joseph Neptune (Penobscot) in Plymouth, Massachussetts for the Plymouth tercentennial in 1921. Note the scale model on the port rail near the stern.

Benson

 

[Todd Bradshaw]

It's unfortunate that they are wearing Dakota (Sioux) style warbonnets. I guess nobody believes you're a real Indian unless you have one.

 

[Benson Gray]

It's unfortunate that they are wearing Dakota (Sioux) style warbonnets.

My understanding is that Western movies led people to believe that all Native Americans dressed like Western Indians. This led the Penobscots and most other Eastern tribes to start dressing that way for ceremonies. The link below has examples of their more traditional headdress.

Benson

American Indian Artifacts | Important Finds in the Penobscot Indian Collection of Dr. Siebert | Skinner Inc.

This 1860 photo is a relic of a time when the Penobscot Nation still spoke its own language. Dr. Frank Siebert collected American Indian artifacts including silver hat bands, a French hatchet, and a rare women's cap.

www.skinnerinc.com

 

[chris pearson]

Either way……awesome pic!