Absarog-Issawua (from the land of the Crow Indians)

Abstract

"This is an original piece of research into the Crow Indian uses of native plants and animals for food and medicinal, as well as other purposes. Incorporated into the manuscript are introductory legends or incidents surrounding or accompanying the recipes."

This is a paper about the plants, meats, and their uses in various recipes by Crows. Scattered throughout the paper are tidbits on roles of women in Crow society. Besides explanations of the usages of certain plants and foods the paper includes stories about the plants and food items. The author stresses the importance of not wasting anything and being thankful for what nature has provided. Also included is a story about pemmican and how much of a delicacy it was, so much so that it was used for barter, and how it was used for certain ceremonies. The stories of the introduction of cattle and coffee to the Crow are included in this paper as well as Old Man Coyote stories. From the descriptions of medicinal usages of plants many of the ailments commonly suffered by the Crows can be deduced. Lastly, the author includes her vita, which contains biographical information, followed by instructions on how to read the Crow language.