Iroquois Rattles
The Iroquois people used many different types of rattles for social dancing and singing, as well as healing and other ceremonies.
Rattles used for Social Gatherings
Elm Bark Rattles
Steer Horn Rattles
Bark rattles were made from Elm bark. The bark is collected in the spring, and used for rattles, containers, ladles, and to build long houses.
Horn rattles were made from bison horn, and later steer horn. The horns were sliced to the apropriate size, cleaned, and filled with cherry pits.
Turtle Foot Rattle
Deer Toe Rattles
Rattles were sometimes made from the feet of snapping turtles. The Iroquois people believed no parts of an animal should be wasted, and they tried to find uses for everything.
Deer toes, or dew claws, were often used to make rattles. Dancers also used the toes for noise makers around their legs or ankles instead of the metal bells you might see today.