Ahtove

artistry

ecology

tools

values

ahtove (listen)

speaker

Our Northern Cheyenne Voices

This Northern Cheyenne saying emphasizes an openness to hearing and learning from others. As you ahtove, you’ll discover more about yourself and how stories and culture interconnect us to each other and our world. 

regalia
drum
ethnobotany
buffalo trunk
weapons
picture walk
governance
language
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artistry

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Northern Cheyenne Regalia
regalia

Regalia is special clothing and accessories worn by the Northern Cheyenne during ceremonies and dances. It has deep meaning, with colors and designs representing identity and spiritual beliefs. The materials used, like leather and feathers, are chosen carefully. Regalia differs for various events, and its creation often involves family and community traditions. It’s not just clothing; it holds spiritual significance and is a source of pride, symbolizing cultural identity for the Northern Cheyenne.

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Drumming with Thomas Shoulderblade
drum

Drumming and song is a vital aspect of Northern Cheyenne culture, contributing to ceremonies, dances, and a sense of cultural identity. It serves as a powerful means of expression, connecting individuals to their heritage and fostering a communal spirit within the Northern Cheyenne tribe.

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ecology

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Ethnobotany with Linwood Tall Bull
ethnobotany

People of the Northern Cheyenne tribe share information about plants through stories. These stories not only talk about how plants are used but also share the cultural and spiritual importance of these plants. This storytelling tradition helps weave plants into the cultural identity of the Northern Cheyenne.

tools

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Buffalo Trunk with Randal & Linwood Tall Bull
buffalo trunk

The Northern Cheyenne relied on the buffalo in many important ways. They used buffalo for food, making clothes, and building shelters. Buffalo parts like bones and horns were turned into tools, and the hides were used for clothing. The buffalo also had deep spiritual and cultural meaning, playing a role in ceremonies and stories. It was a crucial part of their daily life, connecting them to their community and providing essential resources.

Weapons
Weapons with Randall Tall Bull
weapons

The Northern Cheyenne used different tools for various purposes. They had bows and arrows for hunting, spears for fishing and combat, small knives for daily tasks, war clubs for battles, and shields made from buffalo hides for protection. Each tool had its own role, helping them survive and defend themselves.

values

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Language with Setovaatse Medicine Bull and Marty
language

The Cheyenne language is part of the Algonquian language family and is vital for Northern Cheyenne cultural heritage. Beyond just a way to communicate, it holds their history, traditions, and values. Within the community, Cheyenne is used in daily conversations, storytelling, ceremonies, and expressing cultural practices. It acts as a special thread that connects the Northern Cheyenne people.

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Picture Walk with Linwood Tall Bull
picture walk

Storytelling is very important for the Northern Cheyenne because it helps pass down their history and culture. Elders and storytellers share stories orally to talk about the tribe’s origins, historical events, and important lessons. This tradition connects the present generation to their ancestors and helps maintain their cultural identity. 

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Governance with Norma Wolf Chief Gourneau
governance

The Northern Cheyenne are governed by a Tribal Council, which includes elected representatives making decisions for the tribe. There’s also a Tribal President elected separately. They follow a tribal constitution and laws, and community involvement is important for decision-making. Different departments and committees handle specific matters like education and health. This structure aims to address community needs, maintain tribal sovereignty, and preserve their culture.

augmented reality

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that combines computer-generated elements with the real-world environment, providing an interactive and enhanced experience. 

phone

Use augmented reality from ahtove.org to place artifacts on a table or view people in regalia right in front of you. Walk around the computer generated object to view all sides and zoom in to see details.

educators

There are many resources available for you to get the most out of ahtove.org. You can search this website by topic or alphabetically, review tested lesson plans and connect with standards.

Student Teacher Created Lesson Plans
Presenting at NCSS Conference in Philadelphia

Ahtove.org supports Montana IEA

Essential Understandings 1, 3, 6 & 7