James Horn - A Plains Indian
Fourth and Fifth Grade Listens to Speaker
James Horn, an American Indian, spoke recently to the fourth and fifth graders. His talk was full of historical facts and interesting details of the Indian culture. He said that he was not to be called a Native American, because we all are natives to this land if we were born here.
He explained the meaning behind his articles of clothing and other items. Mr. Horn, a member of the Osage tribe, told about the symbols of his shield and how some of the history of his family was told through it. He said it was like an address sign for his tepee. The ceremonial pipe was not a peace pipe but the "soul of the Native American". His pipe was in his family for over 200 years. He explained that he was wearing over 54,000 trade beads that were hand-sewn by himself.
The war bonnet he wore was decorated with many feathers he earned for various reasons of bravery. Mr. Horn, a Vietnam veteran, earned four Purple Hearts.
