The Osage tribe, two versions of the child-naming rite / (1928 N 43 / 1925-1926 (pages 23-164))

Name: The Osage tribe, two versions of the child-naming rite / (1928 N 43 / 1925-1926 (pages 23-164))
Author: Francis La Flesche

By Francis La Flesche

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About This Book

The work documents two variants of an Osage child‑naming rite with careful, step‑by‑step description of ceremonial sequences, sung and recited wi'gi-e, and the distinct roles of gentes (clans) that approach, bless, and pass the child among kin. It details preparation and procession of symbolic figures, life symbols and ornaments, instructions to mothers, hair cutting and personal‑adornment practices, and origin ceremonies. Paraphrases of formulaic recitations, inventories of native names and clan lists, and illustrative plates accompany procedural accounts, conveying ritual choreography and the symbolic meanings attached to objects, gestures, and social responsibilities.

About the Author

Francis La Flesche

Francis La Flesche was a prominent Native American ethnologist and writer, known for his work in documenting and preserving the culture and traditions of the Osage tribe. His notable book, "The Middle Five: Indian Boys at School," provides a unique perspective on the experiences of young Native American boys in a boarding school setting, highlighting the challenges they faced in balancing their cultural identity with the pressures of assimilation. La Flesche's contributions to the understanding of Native American life and his efforts to record the Osage child-naming rite reflect his commitment to cultural preservation and education.