CrowNews.Net

These Ladies Know Apsalooke Fashion

Story by Janice Hudetz and Emily Haas
Photos by Janice Hudetz and Casey Kills Pretty Enemy
CrowNews.Net

There are only about five remaining Crow women who prefer to dress in the style of a period that expressed strong Apsalooke identity and pride. These Crow ladies who wear the traditional fashion are meticulous about their styles and colors. Neatness and tidiness are paramount.

The women’s dress of silk muffler, high-top moccasins, and fancy shawl, with a calico dress and wide leather belt are not readily accessible, as they were in the 1940s to 1960s, when a larger number of women wore these fashions.

Elizabeth “Myrtle” Smart Enemy has lived a fascinating life and has remained strong and healthy throughout the 99 years since she was born in Pryor in 1909. Born into the Big Lodge Clan, she has seen the changes in the cultural life of the Apsalooke people, and carries on the traditions passed on to her from the ways of our people a century earlier.

Hardin Halls Decked in Native Designs

By June Gregory
2nd grade teacher, Hardin Primary School

My second grade class recently did some fun and educational projects related to the Crow tribe.  First, each child found and plotted each reservation in Montana.  Of course, the class was the most excited and interested in the Crow Reservation! 

Next each child made a Crow tribal flag. As we colored each part we discussed what it represented.  Then we cut out the circular part in the middle and mounted it on royal blue.  Finally, the children trimmed their flags with gold glitter.  The flags looked beautiful displayed in the hall and classroom.

Snapshot: Catholic Mass on the Crow Reservation

Slideshow by Adam Sings in the Timber
CrowNews.Net

Any given Sunday morning on the Crow Reservation, you can find Crows worshipping in a variety of ways. At the St. Dennis Catholic Church pictured above, one of the oldest churches in Crow Agency, members gather for mass, singing hymns in both English and Crow. Click on the image above to watch Adam Sings In The Timber's audio slideshow from one mass at St. Dennis.

'Itchik Apsaalooke Nation'

By Breanna Roy
CrowNews.Net

A tour through Crow Country reveals tourists in awe of the land and tribal members with strong ties to their community.