apparel
Bucket List: Coffee Table Book
In my last post, I showcased the Bandana Buckaroo tee and featured a cabinet card of a cowboy dressed smartly in western attire. While working on that post and digging through all of my vintage images I realized the cotton bandana was not restricted to the American cowboy or to utility wear. It seems Native Americans used the cheaply printed cloth just as much or more - but definitely in very creative ways. Going through my pictures I can see the printed square used for:
- head wraps,
- shawls and shoulder wraps,
- neckerchiefs and cravats,
- and even as lightweight blankets on baby's cradleboards (the ones in the family photo appear to displayed proudly and boldly)
One fierce character even used his bandana as a jaunty eye patch.
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I find this so interesting. When you Google "bandana history" the general results are:
BANDANA - During long cattle drives or roundups, the cowboys needed a way to keep all the dust and dried grass from getting into their nose, mouth and throat. Hence, the bandana came about. The bad guys took opportunity of the bandana and also used it to cover their face when doing their dirty tactics.
I am surprised to find nothing covering the history of the bandana as it relates to the American Indian. Wonder why? Am I crazy or does anyone else find this fascinating? I think it would make a great thesis paper for someone in textile and museum studies or even a great coffee table book. OK, maybe I'll do it in my spare time....
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Bucket List Item #12: The American Indian and the Bandana
.look for it at Barnes & Noble!
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Chris Barton
May 16, 2016
I do find this fascinating – had no idea of the “tie” with Native peoples – love the photos – the weathered faces must hide ineresting stories…..you must have quite the stash of collectables!! I always enjoyed hearing how you arrived at the names of your jackets, etc.