Speaking in Sign

As part of our studies about Lewis and Clark, we've learned that many of the interactions between the explorers and Native Americans had to be in sign language. There was not one universal language between the different tribes, even, so they needed a communication tool that could be understood by all.

We learned some signs common to the Plains tribes that goes back hundreds of years. This is how Drouillard (a member of the Corps) spoke to the Shoshone.

BUFFALO

BEAR

MOON (Combination of sun sign, followed by hands going down, followed by crossed wrists)

HORSE (ignore pencil!)

MOUNTAIN (Start with hands into fists over head, then bring them down one to each side of chest, the move them forward very slowly)

FRIEND

TIPI