Horn Cups & Personal Items

Like peoples across the world, Native Americans needed basic utensils, and, as was their custom both before and after the availability of European trade items, they turned to nature for materials. In those days, the eating of soups or mush was facilitated by two utensils: a serving ladle and an individual eating spoon. Additionally, there was the need for something to drink from. American Indians used horns from buffalo, mountain sheep, and, eventually, cows to make these personal and camp utensils.

For information on making your own horn cups and ladles, see Crazy Crow's Craft Focus Article, "Horn Utensils".