Sioux Indians Hitting a Dime at 100 Yards, July 4, 1891, courtesy Library of Congress

Relationships between whites and Native Americans were not always antagonistic. Many settlers in the West had a healthy respect for Native Americans’  herbal knowledge (see 6/13/10 post) as well as their skills in hunting, tracking, riding, and shooting.

Americans had a fascination with these aspects of Native American culture, which were exploited in various “western” entertainments. Many times, however, groups of men simply indulged in games of skill or contests.

Apache Men Playing A Hoop and Pole Game Called Chees (1883-1888?) courtesy Library of Congress

Canoe Tug of War, Tulalip Bay, circa 1912, courtesy Library of Congress

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