That tattooing was a common practice among the native peoples, or first nations of North America, is extensively and well documented in the journals and writings of early explorers, adventurers and religious leaders. Unfortunately there are not nearly as many instances of pictorial evidence to show what the tattoos of early Native American Indians actually looked like. But we do know that all along the East Coast, all the way from Florida to the St. Lawrence River, that native populations practiced body art and tattooing. The tribes belonging to the Iroquois Federation distinguished themselves by tattooing clan and family tattoo symbols as forms of identification.

 

Yes  most  tribes did  use tattoos....most tattoos had a special meaning...by each tribe  ect.  wado

it is true tattoos were a part of the Cherokee culture. it is i suppose still done in some places and among some people. the way i understand it each tattoo has a meaning or purpose. also i have heard it said that the "turbans" came from this. i guess someone on the other side of the pond wanted to see what these people looked like. i guess because of "tattooing" on their heads they were wrapped in turbans for pictures, also since this was sposed to be the "gateway to the indies" the term indian evolved . tattoos, many different ones im sure, many meanings im sure. but i guess like so many things that too is being lost, or we just simply dont practice that anymore. i do know the Natchez still practice this abit, i can't say how abundantly as i've not been imersed in their people. wish i knew more. only know they "did" and perhaps some still "do".im pretty sure that ashes were a part of the "INK". many things have changed i suppose.

 

sevenbearswalking

 

thank you so much Annie and Seven Bearswalking,you may have guessed I asked because I have tattoo's myself.I have 5 right now and all have special meanings for me.I did not get my first one till I was 39 it is something that had been part of my life for 20 years already. I already have some plans for Cherokee tattoos . Maybe words written in Cherokee and pictures of animals,with respect I thank you both again .till we meet again Rick

Rick;

 

If you like I have many Native American tattoos that I have collected. I can email you what I have if you like but dont want to do it threw here cause it would take too much space and time. You have my email just let me know and I will send them to you.