Tribe/Region: Cree/Kaska, Saskatchewan, Canada, Northwest Territory

Circa: Mid 19th Century

Materials: Wood (ash or birch), rawhide babiche of thin caribou hide straps, finely woven cotton cloth strips, heavy woven cotton ties, wood plugs.

Dimensions:

Large adult: L. 57″ x W. 121/2″

Medium adult: L.45″ x W. 10 1/2″

Small (child) L. 26″ x W. 7″

Condition: Excellent. Typical wear patterns, rich dry patina. No restoration.

Comments: “Snowshoes, ‘agamak’ next to the canoe are the most essential means of travel…” p. 68, Speck.

The bent-wood form is constructed of long grain ash or birch that is steamed and bent into shape. The babiche webbing is of long strips of caribou hide. The upturned toe is fashioned to glide over the snow. These are early examples as there are no nails or screws utilized in the construction as seen in later examples made for the trade.

This assemblage of three sizes, all apparently crafted by a master snowshoe maker, is unique. These perhaps originated in the same Native family.

References:

-Davidson, Daniel Sutherland, Snowshoes. American Philosophical Society, Vol. VI, 1937, Phil. PA.

-Speck, Frank G. Penobscot Man. University of Pennsylvania Press. Phil, PA, 1940. pp 68-70.