She may have already sold it, but Mary Schmitt and Cayuse Western Americana have obtained a hand made Sioux beaded horse neck ornament.  Dating from the late 19th century, it is, according to Schmitt, the only known neck cover on the market since 1989.  “Very few exist in museum collections,” she says.

After the Civil War, beading became more and more popular; outside influences increased, and Americans, other than Indians, collected and bought beaded goods.  Tribes were more relegated to reservations and time available for beading and crafts increased.   Designs changed, and the American flag motif was developed.

But finding such an excellent specimen is “…a once in a lifetime occurance,” says Schmitt.

Cayuse Western Americana is located at 255 N. Glenwood, Jackson, Wyoming. Phone 307.739.1940 or 800.405.4096