Northeast
Northeast / Iroquois

Steer horn, wood, leather
ca. Early 20th century
Length: 10 in
Idiophones – Indirectly Struck – Rattle

Two steer horn rattles of the Iroquois people of the Northeast.  These rattles are made from a cow horn that has been dried and hollowed out.  A circular wooden top and bottom are carved to fit both ends of each horn.  A wooden handle is then carved and fitted to go through the top and bottom of the rattle and a pin is inserted at the top of the handle to secure it.  Dried corn, small stones, cherry pits, or small metal balls are added before sealing the parts together. 

These rattles are used to produce the rhythm for Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) songs and dances.  In particular, they are used by singers who accompany the lead singer who plays the water drum.  The rattles were played by both striking the horn against the palm of the hand or against the thigh, and by shaking it.

Prior to European contact and the introduction of cows, the northeastern native people used bark, gourd, and turtle shells to make rattles.

Resource: https://i36466.wixsite.com/learninglonghouse/music–dance