Iowa

The Iowa lived in the area of the state that bears their name. Like many eastern Prairie tribes, the Iowa favoured the moccasin and, by the late 19th century, their decorative work reflected the Prairie-style beadwork.

Sauk and Fox

The Sauk and Fox are two distinct eastern tribes that banded together in the mid-18th century. Groups of Sauk and Fox lived in parts of Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri and Iowa in the 19th century. Their cultural interaction with many of the eastern Woodlands and Prairie people can be seen in their moccasins and beadwork.

Omaha

The Omaha traditionally lived in an area that combined Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota. Like the Mandan, Hidatsa and Iowa, they lived in earthen lodges as well as tipis while out hunting. Omaha moccasins typically involve a one-piece construction and have a very distinctive collar that lies across the instep. Embellishment is generally limited to the edge of the collar and down the front of the vamp. Little pompoms and small beaded circles placed on either side of the beaded centre strip are also common.

Mandan and Hidatsa

Historically, the Hidatsa ranged across North Dakota and the Mandan lived along the Missouri River. Both tribes lived in settled agricultural villages, which were centres of trade, and produced some of the finest decorative work on the Plains. These separate-soled shoes were made by Hidatsa women. The striking colours and fine quillwork are hallmarks of the work created by these people.

Osage

In the 19th century, the Osage lived in an area that spread from the south of Missouri into Arkansas, Kansas and Oklahoma. Trading was at the centre of their society and is highlighted by bright ribbon work outfits and German silver ornamentation. Their footwear was of a simple cut and ornamentation was limited to the trim of the small cuff that fell around the throat of the shoe. Sometimes pigmentation was used.