Local Indigenous Dwellings
The local tribes had several different styles of dwellings, very often influenced by locally available materials. The Chukchansi House used branches for an inner frame which was thatched with leafy branches. The cedar bark house on display was used as a dwelling by the local Mono and Miwuk tribes. Cedar bark was the preferable material for building and is particularly strong and durable compared to other tree bark, and is resistant to weather, rot and insects. A pyramid shaped frame of poles was made from the saplings that were propped against each other and tied together at the top. The poles were often lashed together materials such as wild grape vines. Cedar bark was then used to cover the poles to create a sturdy and durable covering. There were two openings in the structure: one was large enough for a doorway and the other opening was at the top to provide ventilation.
Spirit of the Red Heart
Medium: Redwood
Native American Artist: Alexander “LX” Lewis (AKA) LX Makeshim First enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, also Diné
Description: The Spirit of the Red Heart captures the unwavering spirit of Central California’s indigenous communities who have overcome centuries of challenges. They remain steadfast in their pursuit of a better tomorrow, where they can restore their connection to the land, their heritage, and their rightful place in the world.
The embodiment of the Red Heart is tenderly cradling her baby in an intricately woven red-bud and sour-berry basket, and milk-weed belt adorned with a hat crafted in a similar style. Her hand is extended in a gesture of offering to the salmon swimming upstream to spawn. At the hem of her dress, four salmon are depicted swimming against the current to reach their spawning grounds, symbolizing the native people’s return to their ancestral homeland. Although we have many challenges to overcome, we will always remember where we came from.
Special thanks to Ernie Gomez from Clean Cut Tree Service and Jim Elliott for their assistance.