Side seam moccasins are the oldest known type of moccasins from the Great plains. During the first half of the 19th century, they were the only type of shoes worn by most of the Great plains and Plateau tribes. They consisted of a single piece of leather and had soft soles. Some of them were decorated with quill and beadwork. Very often they were made for trading purposes. Winter moccasins with the fur on were also made following this pattern.
What are (plains and woodland) indian reproductions? Period Indian items are called originals or artefacts, whereas products that respect the characteristics, i.e. style, proportions, materials
Beads manufactured nowadays differ from those made one or two hundred years ago, particulary in colour shades and shape. Old beads were all of European origin and made of glass. The articless discusses history of seed and pony beads and differences between historic and modern beads colours and shapes. It contains images of many Plains Indians pre-reservation items and list of the most widespread 19th century bead colours.
War shirts are some of the most beautiful artifacts plains indians produced. They were not just interesting and attractive pieces of outerwear, but rather a sign of social status. Only distinguished warriors had the right to wear such kind of shirts. The article discusses the meaning of war shirts, constructions details, importance of four beaded or quilled strips, meaning of human scalp locks, ermine tubes and leather fringes, pigment painting, pictographs and many more.