Grass Dance History

Grass (Dawenjigeshimok) Dance History

The Grass (Dawenjigeshimok) Dance originally came from the Central Plains. The Omaha tribe was one of the first tribes mentioned to be the oldest tribe to have the grass dance. The dance was a gift to a man by a helper spirit while he was on his fast. The head grass dancer wore a crow belt for adornment. The feathers were said to symbolize the war coups or honors received. All the other members wore bunches of grass on the belts. When they dance they show the movements of the tall grass, blowing in the wind, with long fairly graceful movements, when smoothing down the area. The dancers danced to bring the spirits to the jiingtamok (powwow) grounds. This is how the grounds are prepared.

Others say that the Grass Dance originate from warriors sneaking up in the tall grass. It was originally a part of a sacred ritual, and usually followed the formal ceremonies of warrior societies. Some also believe that these early grass dancers could be in many ways, the early men’s traditional dancers in the plains region.

Jiingtamok Anshinaabemowin Manual A Curriculum Guide

Pieces of the Regalia

Roach - Mishkwaanzigan
Head Band - Wiikwendibebzowin
Choker/Necklace - Naabkawaagan
Apron/Belt/Sash - Gchipzowin
Feather Fan - Miigni Bwiins
Breech Cloth - Aanzyaan
Shoes - Makizinan