Fourth Grade Weaves Back to Native Americans

Fourth grade has once again kicked off its year-long study of New York’s history with what is now a curriculum staple, weaving their own wampum belts!

Using modern materials, students weave traditional patterns of purple and white beads on looms with a warp and weft method.

Native American wampum belts were originally made from purple and white Quahog shells. They were highly valued for trade, social status and to convey messages among the New York's tribes.