Feast Day at the
Santa Clara Indian Pueblo

I have a few photos to show you of a dance from the lesser Feast Day, on August 12th. In that instance a War Dance was performed, that was adopted from the Plains Indians. Given that it actually isn't a part of Tewa/Santa Clara historic ritual, they didn't mind photographs being taken of that dance. I think that if you view these pictures you will see that the ritual traditions of the Santa Clara Pueblo are alive and well, even in these days of rapid technological change. I was particularly fascinated to learn that some of the best dancers are professional people, such as surgeons, who return to the Pueblo to dance each year.

click on image to see a larger view The dancers are preceded into the plaza by the ceremonial drummers

click on image to see a larger view The leaders of the dance groups come into the plaza with ear-splitting whoops & yells.

click on image to see a larger view The dancers form a long line completely across the plaza, and move in a snake-like procession. The rhythm of the drums and the movements of the dancer's banners create an entrancing and hypnotic effect. On the roof of the Kiva (Indian Religious House/Church) the clan leaders watch their clan dancers with great pride.

click on image to see a larger view Dancers are encouraged to start very young, often as young as three years old!

click on image to see a larger view The enthusiasm of the young dancers is quite inspiring. It is clear that they take great pride in their clan traditions.

may not be used on other websites without prior authorization.
For permission please contact Lynne MacAfee at lynne@milehighcomics.com.

Privacy Policy: Mile High Comics, Inc. does not share any of your information with anyone.

Captain Woodchuck and all data © 1997-2020 Mile High Comics, Inc.^TM All Rights Reserved.

Mile High Comics is a registered trademark of Mile High Comics, Inc.^TM.All Rights Reserved.

All scans are exclusive property of Mile High Comics, Inc.^TM and
may not be used on other websites without prior authorization.
For permission please contact Lynne MacAfee at lynne@milehighcomics.com.