Haida - Conflict and Robbery

The Raven's Tale. Cheryl Samuel, University of British Columbia Press, Vancouver, 1987.

Long ago no divisions existed between humans, animals and spirits. All things of the earth, sky, and, water were connected and all beings could pass freely between them. The Raven was a trickster full of supernatural power. He stole the sun from his grandfather Nasshahkeeyalhl and made the moon and stars from it. The Raven created lakes, rivers and filled the lands with trees. He divided night and day, then pulled the tides into a rhythm. He filled the streams with fresh water, scattered the eggs of salmon and trout, and placed animals in the forests. The first human was hiding in a giant clamshell and Raven released them onto the beaches and gave humans fire. Raven disappeared and took with him the power of the spirit world to communicate and connect with humans.

"Button blankets" have been used for more than a century. The designs are family emblems. They were first made when wool blankets were introduced from Europe. Native women transformed blankets into ceremonial clothing by adding appliqué crest designs cut from different colours of wool, and outlining the shapes with buttons. Button blankets are still worn during feasts and public performances of song and dance.

The making of button blankets has developed into an art form, and contemporary Native fabric artists continue to create these beautiful garments. This superb example, Raven Bringing Light to the World was made in 1987 by Haida fabric artist Dorothy Grant.

Donated by Dr. Margaret P. Hess of Calgary
Courtesy of the Canadian Museum of Civilization