Take a peek into our 14,000+ collection with our blog series, From the Vault! Every other week, we’re sharing interesting stories about one of our artefacts.
What is the provenance of this pair? When did they enter the BSM collection?
This pair of moccasins was one of four made by Kadohadacho maker Sun-wit Sturm née Longhat, wife of the Jacob J “Doc” Strum, for Virgil Robbins in 1909. They were acquired by the Museum in 1993 from the Richard Pohrt Jr. collection.
Are there any features that distinguish this pair from other moccasins from the same period and geographical location?
The Kadohadacho had their traditional homelands in what is now the United States along the Red and Arkansas River valleys of Texas and Oklahoma. After a series of frustrated negotiations with the Unites States, they were forcibly settled in what became Oklahoma, close to the Lenape and Kickappo nations. This pair, made by Sun-wit Strum, is strikingly similar to Lenape examples in both cut and beadwork and suggests cross-cultural influence.
Can you elaborate more on the materials used to make this pair?
This pair was made of deerskin and embellished with glass beads on the vamp. The collars feature dark blue textile edged in pink silk ribbon decorated with beadwork.
Who would have worn this pair and where or for what occasion?
It is unknown if these moccasins were made as a gift or if they were sold to Virgil Robbins but they were never worn.
