Those embarrasing ancestors: A totem pole can have many reasons for being created. Spirituality, anc
Those embarrasing ancestors: A totem pole can have many reasons for being created. Spirituality, ancestors, family legend or significant events. And then there are the shame poles, created as a means to publicly ridicule someone. This pole in Saxman, Alaska was carved to commemorate a visit by William H. Seward to Fort Tongass in 1869. Seward was then US Secretary of State and during his visit, Seward sat on an elaborately carved and painted box while he was presented with gifts of generosity from his Tlingit hosts during a feast given in his honor. The intent of this pole is indicated by the figure’s red-painted nose and ears to symbolize Seward’s stinginess . According to legend, Seward was an rude guest who did not return either the courtesty or generosity of his hosts. The original of this pole was carved in 1885 to remind the Tongass people of Seward’s ill-mannered visit. -- source link
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