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calumet
[< Cdn F]
DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
Entry from the DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
This entry may contain outdated or offensive information, terms, and examples.
n.
an ornamented ceremonial pipe, used by certain Indian tribes as a symbol of peace and adopted by the white traders in their dealings with these Indians.
See: calumet of peace
Quotations
1665
When we weare together, an old man rises & throws our calumet att our feet. . . .
1743
. . . this Callimut (alias wus ka che) is one of their Idols, few being admitted in a meeting but those that has a Lawfull right and title to a callimut.
1890
The calumet, or pipe of peace, ornamented with eagle's quills, is a sacred pipe, and never allowed to be used on any other occasion than that of peace-making.
1957
. . . the calumet used at the powwow is supposed to have been sucked by Sitting Bull himself.