redman32.jpg

Lean Wolf

Lean Wolf was a chief of the Gros Ventres tribe. This tribe usually went to battle on foot, carrying food and clothing on their backs. They had scouts called 'wolves,' who were sent out ahead to reconnoiter in case of impending danger. If the scouts returned running in a zigzag course, and shouting, it was a sign of some sort of threatening circumstanace. If they barked like wolves it was a sign they had seen an encampment or lodge. They believed in the supernatural powers for victory inherent in certain war paraphernalia, such as cylindrical raw hide cases, used for holding brightly painted feathers, which greatly increased their confidence and valor.