Poem



Beads of every color cover the horses from head to toe.

Feathers flying in tails and manes, joined with even more shimmering beads that reflect the sunlight.

 The beads are aligned to form patterns of swirls, diamonds, zigzags, geometric shapes.

Or pictures of magnificent eagles flying across fields brimming with flowers of every color.

 Martingales, bridles, saddle blankets, toys, chest ornaments, and quirts.

Beading isn't just for horses, though. People make beautiful beaded pieces to use and wear as well.

 Cradleboards, bags, leggings, dresses, coats, belts, and shirts.

From the Spanish came the idea of beads, from other tribes came ideas such as sewing.

 The bone needle threaded with brown sinew passes in and out of the bright beads and animal hide, creating beautiful pieces of art and celebration regalia.

Most beadwork is made by a woman's gentle hand, though occasionally a man does beadwork too.

 Some pieces are so full of beautiful, colorful beads and decorations, they are non – functional to horse and human.

What are the beaded masterpieces used for?

 Today is the 4th of July and the Lakota are here to celebrate with a parade of horses.

They come prancing down the street on their beautiful horses, covered in the traditional beaded horse regalia.

Pictures from the Museum of the Native American, A Song for the Horse Nation