Story Knives – Preserving Traditions in Nature

Storytelling is known to many as a way to preserve tradition as they are filled with universal messages that stand the test of time. In many Native cultures, stories settle arguments and make sense of the world in addition to providing entertainment and preserving history.

We all learn from stories but they are a powerful way for children to learn. That’s probably why Alaska Native groups historical teach young women to “go story knife.” A young woman’s grandfather would craft a knife from ivory, antler or wood and offer the gift to his daughter as way to preserve stories.

Young women draw pictures in mud, snow or sand to illustrate stories told by their elders. These techniques are especially important to the Yupik people but many Native groups also use story knives to add dimension to stories.