Hidatsa Legends


Charred Body, Unknown One, First Creator, and Only Man — these are not really Gros Ventre legends at all, but Mandan and Hidatsa ones. Sometimes, especially on the Internet, they are mislabeled as Gros Ventre myths, because the Hidatsas were also called “Gros Ventres” by the early French settlers, and in the reservation era these three tribes were combined to form the Three Affiliated Tribes of the Fort Bertold Reservation.

Here are some fiigures or Gods frequently featured in Hidatsa legends:

Eaters of the Corpses: These were a race of giants who lived in the north and ate the corpses of the dead. They were eventually defeated by the Hidatsa people.

Scarface: Scarface was a young man who was disfigured by a bear attack. He was later transformed into a supernatural being and became a protector of the Hidatsa people.

The White Buffalo Calf Woman: The White Buffalo Calf Woman was a sacred being who brought the Hidatsa people the knowledge of the buffalo and their way of life. She is still revered by the Hidatsa people today.

The Four Winds: The Four Winds are powerful beings who control the weather. They are often seen as benevolent forces, but they can also be destructive.

The Sun: The Sun is a powerful being who is often seen as a creator god. He is also seen as a benevolent force, and he is often prayed to for good weather and bountiful harvests.

The Moon: The Moon is a powerful being who is often seen as a symbol of mystery and magic. She is also seen as a benevolent force, and she is often prayed to for good health and fertility.

The Stars: The Stars are often seen as a symbol of guidance and hope. They are also seen as messengers from the gods, and they can be used to guide humans on their journey through life.

The Earth: The Earth is a powerful being who is often seen as a mother figure. She is also seen as a benevolent force, and she is often prayed to for good health and prosperity.

The Sky: The Sky is a powerful being who is often seen as a father figure. He is also seen as a benevolent force, and he is often prayed to for good weather and bountiful harvests.

Here are some traditional Hidatsa legend titles:

  • The Creation of the World
  • The First People
  • The Coming of the White Man
  • The Battle of the Gods
  • The Story of Scarface
  • The Story of the White Buffalo Calf Woman
  • The Story of the Four Winds
  • The Story of the Sun
  • The Story of the Moon
  • The Story of the Stars
  • The Story of the Earth
  • The Story of the Sky