TOTEM POLES

TOTEM POLES

• Considering the extensive amount of work that went into making a totem pole, they were regarded as a sign of wealth and power. They were often found outside the home of tribal chiefs.

TOTEM POLES

• Every animal depicted on a Pole had a special meaning, characteristics and significance - refer to Animal Totem
• Every color had a special meaning and significance
• Every tribe and clan or family had a special animal totem and their poles were associated with specific colors
• Directional colors - Some colors symbolized the four cardinal points

TOTEM POLES

• Raising of a totem pole is a big celebration among the Indian tribe. A hole is dug to stand the pole in. The pole is carried to the site in a ceremony which often hundreds attend. Ropes will be used to raise the pole into place.

TOTEM POLES

• Many have believed that totem poles are religious symbols but this is false. Carvings will represent the tribal nation and will convey the tribes’ history. Many times the story of a totem pole will be passed down from generation to generation.

TOTEMS POLES

• Totem poles held messages by those that carved them. Carvings were symbols that may tell a story of the carver, such as his part not just in his own family but his standing within a tribe.