Connections with the Ancestors

Crests, or emblems, of Tlingit families and clans represent creatures with whom an ancestor has interacted in the legendary past. Through purchase by the ancestor, often in exchange for his or her life, the descendants receive from the creature the right of ownership to the crest and the accompanying story, song, name, and sometimes more.

Community memory is embedded in the heirlooms that display the crests. By alluding to familiar stories, the crests evoke a rich cultural history in the same way that the Christian cross alludes to an entire spiritual tradition. Relatives identify with the objects through their genealogical connection and keep track of who has possession of the heirlooms now, who had them in the past, and who will have them in the future.

When used in ceremonies, the crest treasures refer to the ancestral spirits and even call upon the spirits represented for healing, courage, strength of purpose, and assistance in the removal of grief. When Tlingit people wear items that contain the crests they are in the presence of their ancestors.