Onehkohra Is the Mohawk word given to these long cylindrical shaped beads. The beads are made from the white and purple quahog shells found along the Atlantic coast of North America. WAMPUM is the word used by the Algonquin to describe these shells.

Mohawk people use the wampum for official and ceremonial purposes. It is said that the Peace Maker introduced the wampum at the time of Kayanere'kowa (the Great Peace) for ceremonial purposes. He told the chiefs of the five nations how he used the wampum to wipe away the tears of Ayonwahtha after the loss of his daughters. This was the first condolence ceremony and has existed till this day. This too could bind the peace among the Five Nations Confederacy.

Drop a line.