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Sticking to Tradition<\/h1>\n
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By Heather Bleecker and Bray Aldrich<\/p>\n
Pablo, MT, United States<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.5″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Step into the rhythm of Native American traditions with Stick Game, also known as Hand Game. This timeless contest of chance unfolds through hand gestures and sign language, with rules and materials tailored to the unique customs of each tribe. Played today in places like Montana<\/strong>, the game’s adaptability has allowed it to persist through generations, fostering spirited play that binds communities together.<\/p>\n Gear for the Game<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n Playing Stick Game requires specialized equipment, beginning with two pairs of white bones:<\/p>\n In addition to the bones, the game involves a set of 10 counting sticks<\/em>. One additional kick stick<\/em>, designed differently, is the most important and remains hidden until a winner is determined.<\/p>\n Traditionally, the pieces used to play Stick Games were made out of bison or American buffalo bones, specifically the ribs. The counting sticks were cedar wood. Nowadays the counting sticks and bones display decorative patterns using paint, tape, or beads.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”9px” text_line_height=”1.2em” custom_margin=”-40px||||false|false” custom_padding=”1px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Present-day Stick Game set. Photo courtesy of Debbie L. Bell. Used with permission.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.5″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Rules of Play<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n Stick Game typically involves two teams, each taking turns as the hiding<\/em> and guessing<\/em> sides. Before the game begins, two individuals are chosen to determine which team gains control, similar to the start of many sports matches. This selection is an honor and may be given to someone who holds a specific social, spiritual, or ceremonial standing within the tribe.<\/p>\n The outcome of the initial hide-and-guess phase grants one team control, giving them the authority to conceal the kick stick. The team that controls the game is the hiding side and maintains this position while stashing at least one bone in players\u2019 hands.<\/p>\n Gameplay gets going with the guessing team using hand gestures to discern the location of the bones. No words are exchanged. Once the set of bones has been found, the team that is hiding and the team that is guessing switch roles.<\/p>\n The ten counting sticks, split evenly between the two teams, change hands as points are won or lost. The hiding team’s goal is to prevent its opponent from guessing where the bones are, thus taking counting sticks and potentially winning the kick stick. The team ending up with all ten of the counting sticks gets a chance to win the kick stick. When that happens, a champion is declared.<\/p>\n Show of Hands<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n Hand gestures are used to guess the location of the bones.<\/p>\n For the inside hand, the guesser is selecting if they think that one or both bones are in the inner hands when there are two people hiding on the same team. The guesser can then find no bones, only one bone, or both bones. If they find none, the team guesses again. If they find one, they receive the bone to hide and the guess again. If they find both bones, control switches and the hiding team becomes the guessers. The same occurs for the outside guess.<\/p>\n Sacred Sounds<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n In the realm of Stick Game, noise elements pose a practical challenge while carrying a deep spiritual significance. Handheld drums made of tan hide are beaten with drumsticks to create an ongoing rhythm. Alongside rattles, singing, and cheers, these sounds are a profound spiritual offering to the players.<\/p>\n The blending of noises weaves a rich atmosphere, embodying the collective energy and prayers of the community. Sounds not only impact the contributor\u2019s team but heighten the difficulty for the other team to discern the location of the hidden bones.<\/p>\n By Chance<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n Games of chance are deeply rooted in the historical and cultural context of Native American communities across North America. In 1907, anthropologist Stewart Culin estimated that games using dice existed among 130 tribes belonging to 30 linguistic groups.<\/p>\n Stick Game itself has a long history passed through many generations. Oral tradition reports that it was used to barter for land usage along with companionship. Once contact with white settlers was made, Native Americans used Stick Game to trade for goods such as horses and cattle like they would when trading with other tribes.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”9px” text_line_height=”1.2em” custom_margin=”-40px||||false|false” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Adaptation of “Indian women playing Stick Game at the midsummer celebration on the Glacier National Park Reservation, Montana, in 1910<\/a>.” Public domain.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Coyote’s Triumph<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n Clues about the ancient origin of Stick Game can be traced back to a narrative known as <\/span>Coyote Loses His Eyes<\/span><\/i>. Within Native American storytelling, coyote stories carry numerous traditions and teachings. These stories are shared during the winter months, specifically after the first snowfall. As winter gives way to spring and the snow melts, the telling of these stories ends. This sacred practice extends beyond tradition, underscoring a profound respect for spiritual balance and ensuring that these stories are shared in harmony with the natural rhythms of the earth.<\/span><\/p>\n In the tale of <\/span>Coyote Loses His Eyes<\/span><\/i>, a pivotal moment unfolds during a Stick Game match. Playing against a group of humans, the blind Coyote wins every round. By the end of the story, Coyote has regained his sight.<\/span><\/p>\n Currently Stick Game finds its place in various traditional gatherings like powwows, celebrations, and, in recent times, tournaments. It brings everyone together, creating a lively atmosphere of laughter and excitement. The games can extend over hours as participants engage in friendly competition, making Stick Game an enduring source of communal enjoyment.<\/span><\/p>\n Have a suggestion for this story? We\u2019d love for you to\u00a0submit it<\/a>!<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/mathkind.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Montana-Stick-Game-GMS.png” alt=”stilt fisherman in Sri Lanka” title_text=”Montana Stick Game GMS” align=”center” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”9px” text_line_height=”1.2em” custom_margin=”-40px||||false|false” custom_padding=”||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Adaptation of \u201cSlahal Games<\/a>\u201d by Vancouver 125 – The City of Vancouver. Licensed under CC BY-2.0<\/a>.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/mathkind.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Montana-Stick-Game-GMS-1884.png” alt=”Goats climbing argan trees in Morocco” title_text=”Montana Stick Game GMS 1884″ align=”center” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”9px” text_line_height=”1.2em” custom_margin=”-40px||||false|false” custom_padding=”||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Adaptation of \u201cIndians Gambling on Puget Sound Beach, ca 1884<\/a>\u201d by C.E. & Hattie King Studio. Public domain.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_accordion _builder_version=”4.27.0″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Blank” open=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_css_main_element=”display: none; ” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Blank<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Math Resources” open_toggle_text_color=”#0a1766″ _builder_version=”4.27.0″ global_colors_info=”{}” toggle_text_color=”#0a1766″ toggle_font_size=”18px” open=”off”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Social Justice Question” open_toggle_text_color=”#0a1766″ _builder_version=”4.25.1″ global_colors_info=”{}” toggle_text_color=”#0a1766″ toggle_font_size=”18px” open=”off”]<\/p>\n How does playing Stick Game and passing down its traditions in Native American communities help people understand and appreciate their culture better? In other words, how can learning about Stick Game contribute to recognizing and respecting the customs unique to each tribe?<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Explore Further” open_toggle_text_color=”#0a1766″ _builder_version=”4.27.0″ global_colors_info=”{}” toggle_text_color=”#0a1766″ toggle_font_size=”18px” open=”off”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Share Your Story” open_toggle_text_color=”#0a1766″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}” toggle_text_color=”#0a1766″ toggle_font_size=”18px” open=”off”]<\/p>\n\n
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