History of the Native American Rattle

The history of the Native American rattle featured here refers to background information provided by Gary Buckman, Lakota artist and based solely on his experience. There are two different types of rattles made and used in the Lakota tradition. Most rattles were used in Medicine or spiritual ceremonies. These rattles were mostly made up of all natural materials with the main end consisting of a buffalo scrotum filled with beans or corn. Metal was not allowed to be used because it was believed this would cancel any special gifts or medicine to be used in the lodge or in ceremony. Because these rattles are considered sacred spiritual objects, many artists like Gary use rawhide in place of buffalo scrotum for the end piece because it can be shaped to resemble the tradition materials used.

Dance rattles were created and used differently. These rattles were meant to be used at pow-wows and for other dances. The components and shapes of these rattles were quite different, often using other animal parts as well as man made items like cones and metal to create a louder sound. Dance rattles were often shaped like Coup sticks with something sharp or hard at the end such as bone.

In Lakota tradition, Turtle Rattles were made with the entire turtle at the end. The Turtle Rattles Gary makes uses shells only, again to protect the sacred meaning behind those used long ago.

**The information contained in the above article is based solely on the life and experiences of Gary Buckman, Lakota Oglala. We do not claim this information to be representative of the Lakota tribe or its members.