Description

According to Barbeau: This crest is explained in the myth of migration from Alaska, belongs to this Eagle family. Costume belonged to the former Mawnaesk [Minee'eskw], a brother of the present, but much older. The present Mawnaesk is over 80 years of age. The former Mawnaesk made it. The shell (t'sik) was formerly one of the coast currencies. It was bought from the Haidas, who got it from the sea. It is found north of Sitka, on the Alaska coast. This was formerly considered a very valuable coat, on account of the shell decoration. Mawnaesk was willing to sell it as he does not use it any longer, having become a Christian.