Northwest Coast
Land of Plenty
Summary Paragraph
The culture of the Northwest Coast was supported by the moderate climate and rich environment. Their location on the Pacific Coast provided them access to fish, shellfish and marine mammals for food. They also were able to hunt small game in the heavily forested areas along the coast. The plentiful cedar trees allowed them to build plank houses for shelter and provide a source for totems which is one of the artistic ways the people told a story or shared their lineage. An important custom in the Northwest Coast were potlatches. Bark from the trees were also used for their clothing as were intestines from the marine mammals. These were celebration where the host would invite members of the tribe to their home and give away their important and rich belongings. They were able to hold this type of custom because of their abundant environment.
Plank House
The Northwest Coast was forested with large, straight cedar trees making wood plentiful for plank houses. The wood of the cedar tree lasts a long time in wet climates.
Food
The Northwest Coast cultural area was located on the coast where fish and shellfish were bountiful. People of the Northwest Coast also ate small animals that they hunted in the forest.
Art
The cedar trees of the Northwest Coast were also used to create totem poles. Totems may tell a story of legend of the culture, represent family lineages or other notable events.
Map of the Northwest Coast
The Northwest Coast was located along the southeast part of present day Alaska, the western coast of present day Canada, as well as the northwest coast of present day Washington.
Tools
The tools of the Northwest coast were made of the wood and stone they had available and allowed them to work with the abundant resources available to them.
Clothing
Button blankets are worn as capes and given as gifts at potlatches or ceremonial dances.