"A Song for the Horse Nation" Review

Horse Nation Exhibit is a Must See for Those Traveling to the Nation's Capital

Levi Rickert, editor-in-chief in Entertainment. Discussion »

WASHINGTON - Upon the opening of the "A Song for the Horse Nation" exhibition at the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian in Washington last October 29, I did a book review for the Native News Network of the accompanying book with the same name. The headline read: "Book creates desire to see exhibit opening today in Washington.".

Last week I had an opportunity to see "A Song for the Horse Nation" exhibit.

It was my first trip to the nation's capital since the opening. On Wednesday I was at the museum for the release of the 2010 Census data for American Indians and Alaska Natives. After the census forum was done, I went downstairs to the view the exhibition.

"A Song for the Horse Nation" begins with a monitor that shows the introduction of horses to the Americas. Changing screens show the progression of penetration of horses into various regions across the Americas with corresponding time periods.

Before the arrival of horses in North America, American Indians traveled by foot or canoe. It is thought that on Columbus' second voyage to the Americas, he brought along 25 horses. Through the years, several Europeans from various countries brought horses with them. As the horse population grew on this continent, American Indians quickly acquired them for transportation purposes.

Between 1680 and 1875, horses revolutionized American Indians lives. By the 1800s, American Indian horsemanship had become legendary, and many Native peoples - especially those living on the Great Plains - had come to depend on horses in their daily lives.

The story of the relationship between American Indians and horses is captured throughout the exhibition. "A Song for the Horse Nation" exhibition has a mix of enlarged old black and white photographs, absolutely beautiful beaded saddles and horse masks that make clear the point that American Indians viewed horses with more respect than simply providing them with a means of transportation.

The various pieces that make up the exhibition demonstrate how talented artisans American Indians were and are. Some of items on display were done by contemporary Native artists.

The exhibition has a short video that tells the unique affinity between American Indians and horses that visitors may view. Throughout the exhibition sounds of clip-clopping can be heard. Thee life sized teepee with painted horses of different colors that display warriors on horses was a favorite part of the exhibition for me.

Horses arguably allowed some tribes to expand their territories. Horses were used by the Great Plains tribes to become expert buffalo hunters.

An American Indian with the word "horse" in his or her name, such as Crazy Horse, American Horse or Horse Capture, signified strength of character.

"A Song for the Horse Nation" exhibition was previously on display the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, George Gustav Heye Center in New York City.

The Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian is located at 4th Street and Independence Avenue. "A Song for the Horse Nation" is on view now through January 7, 2013. Hours: 10 am - 5:30 pm, daily, closed on Christmas Day. Admission is free. The museum is accessible to individuals with disabilities.

The exhibition did not disappoint me and will not disappoint those interested in knowing more about American Indian history and culture.

My biggest disappointment was time did not allow me to actually read all of the narrative panels that are placed throughout the exhibition, which I will have to view on my next trip to Washington.

posted January 30, 2012 7:20 am est