Mary Weahkee makes Mogollon sandals from yucca

In this demonstration video, Mary Weahkee of Santa Clara Pueblo, an archaeologist with the Center for New Mexico Archaeology, shows the process of making a Mogollon-style sandal using woven broad-leaf yucca combined with fiber cordage from narrow-leaf yucca, reproducing a technique used hundreds and possibly thousands of years ago.

[@jjlimon4297]

Loved it, I’m from Mexico my mother looks just like you, one day she was in the hospital, and the nurse came in to the room to see how she was doing, and she started to speak English to her, and I had to tell the nurse that my mom did not speak English, and she said that she thought my mom was a Native American and I said to the nurse that she was, but she did not speak English, she spoke Spanish, my mom’s dad and mother were Mexican Indians unfortunately my mom passed away in 2016. I just found this video in KZbin, and I loved it, thank you for sharing your art skills.

[@nancybusso6171]

“When you take something, you have to give something back”..........what a wonderful, beautiful way of life!

[@amythompson7700]

Nancy Busso I’m not sure leaving chewing gum counts as Giving?

[@wiresa.reintresting7051]

@@amythompson7700 Well, chewing gum can be nice. Perhaps,if you prefer, some organic mulch, compost, or something like wood chips to help build up the nutrition in the soil around the plant and help to hold moisture , or , in certain seasons, water, would be , an appropriate, and maybe useful, thing to leave. Something like food may have more of a symbolic value to people though, and may play other roles that i'm not aware of, that maybe aren't mentioned here. Other people have long experience with the subject , likely. Of course, i have no experience with these plants, or sandal making, or the traditions involved, so don't take what i say too seriously, on the subject. It's just an idea .

[@mawi1172]

We ALL live by that motto. Not just American Indians. So don't act like you've never heard anyone say that before. Indians don't love the Earth anymore than the rest of us.

[@nancybusso6171]

@@mawi1172 WOW! NO not everyone lives by that motto but wouldn't it be nice if they did? And yes I do believe that the Native Americans "love" and treat this Earth better than a lot of people. Peace.

[@barbarakangas3255]

@@mawi1172 Then why are "the rest of us" (which would indicate everyone who is not Native American), destroying the earth?

[@asarahi888]

an absolutely amazing historical reconstructionist. she’s keeping tradition and knowledge alive, truly truly incredible. and the sewing kit was truly genius ! hope shes doing well and is healthy 💗

[@lanajantz2240]

Me , I pray the same ,her to be well

[@lanajantz2240]

And healthy

[@junebay5265]

Love your profile pic!

[@dr.lexwinter8604]

Most people on Earth are still in the stone age. It's the in between that isn't being kept alive.

[@user-jk6pw1ze4d]

@@dr.lexwinter8604 , за этим ремеслом будущее!

[@halimakimathi4189]

Her voice is so gentle. Who ever mother she is, they are blessed

[@littledabwilldoya9717]

Barbra benassi Yes, very calming!

[@jahyeet1137]

Dawn Burton I fell asleep watching this

[@littledabwilldoya9717]

Jah Yeet I’d say that’s a pretty relaxing voice!😁

[@dancingdog6732]

Yes I love hearing her talk she has a lovely voice

[@silva7493]

I thought the same thing. I bet she's a beautiful singer too.

[@emmarounsville1479]

Your sewing kit has to be one of the coolest things I've ever seen!

[@paulkeating2049]

& hearing the sound of her sewing kit, nice. This whole video is so good, I have a new tool in my mental toolbox. I really like your narration as you work! Thank You.

[@lindacondon8185]

In the book series, Clan of the Cave Bear, it talks about the sewing kit, sandals, and clothing , how it was made, etc. Also the plants that were eaten and used for medicine. Thank you for showing me.

[@shinanbarclay67]

Linda Condo

[@justanotheralmaroad1923]

@@lindacondon8185 would love to have those books to read. I can be a book worm especially when it comes to Native Americans.

[@lindacondon8185]

@@justanotheralmaroad1923 There are a total of 6 books. They are by Jean M Auel. ( Earth's Children). The names are (in order) 1) Clan of the Cave Bear 2) Valley of Horses 3)Mammoth Hunters 4) Plains of Passage 5) Shelter of Stones 6) The Land of Painted Caves The Author did a lot of extensive, meticulous research and fascinating detail to make sure she got everything correct for that period of time, ( the Ice Age). The animals, the people, ( hunter/gatherers) The clothing, the food they ate and how they stored it. It is a fictional story of a young woman and her life but by all her research,( Jean Auel ), she brings you right into that time period. I truly think you will enjoy these books and see what I mean. I got my books at Goodwill and used bookstores. They even have maps on the insides of the book's cover showing where it takes place. You can also get them online. ENJOY!!

[@robbiejoymeadows803]

I could listen to you all day and you are a wonderful teacher ❤️ My papaw told me about when he was a kid they made cord/rope from the kind of yucca that was in their yard and how it was the strongest you can get. He said that was what they tied the smoked meat up with. He said when a tornado took apart the smokehouse when they finally found the beams miles away the meats were still tied to them!

[@rewolf71]

yes! and they have sugars in the leaves that make the meats so tasty!

[@pierrerossouw6083]

Made my first yucca rope today. What a wonderful feeling. My hands are sore and cramping but my heart is smiling. Thanks for sharing this knowledge.

[@juliejames8308]

Bless you for doing so.

[@pierrerossouw6083]

@@juliejames8308 Such a cool reply! I've since learned to weave "almost" watertight baskets and very strong trays, but those sandals!!!!! It is still some time before i master that skill. Check in another year; I reckon I'll have my first pair of "Louis Vuitton" all natural sandals made right out of my own garden ! Blessed be.

[@starsackaney4996]

To the lady in the video here: You've got a wonderfully soothing voice to listen to and I imagine people like learning from you. You're assertive and knowledgeable yet humble as you mention ypu have yet to learn much more. To the channel: 'm so glad I stumbled upon your video of a talented and skilled lady!! Subbed and liked and I'm coming back for more! ♡♡♡

[@liliworth8098]

Star Sackaney her name is Mary Weahkee, she is a Comanche and Puebla Archeologist and Anthropologist... brilliant, wise and humble. A true gift.

[@justanotheralmaroad1923]

I just came across the turkey blanket video and subbed. This is my second video to watch. Would love to take lessons from her.

[@liliworth8098]

Margaret Witt me too. With some research you may find she does teach somewhere.

[@24get24give]

well said,and I totally agree!

[@robertfleming387]

Me Too....

[@TruthinLove33]

It is such an honor to get to observe this wonderful woman performing an ancient art! Today, I feel very blessed indeed!

[@marcelasantander7457]

You are nt the only one! I LOVED her, this art and the rescuing of this treasures!

[@marymathis9299]

My husband retired from AZ Fish & Game some years ago, when l showed him this video, he said he used to find sandals in the caves up in the Mogollon Rim. l think the way the First People lived is so amazing...never wasting a thing! Love it, love it! Love it!! Thanks so much for taking the time to share it with us! 👍🥰❤️😁👏👏👏👏👏👏🙏🏼

[@Kanoshe]

FORGET THE SANDALS @20:30 thats one of the best ways of making cordage i've ever seen!!

[@A_Grifflet]

I have seen so many people demonstrate making cordage, and none of them are as efficient, and most not as strong (seeming) as hers. Absolutely wonderful technique!

[@deannerowland2287]

Her demonstration of her turkey feather comforter is awesome! Such grace, thanks be many times

[@christianrapana5219]

Cordage made the same way using harakeke in New Zealand (harakeke is also called New Zealand Flax)

[@resourcedragon]

Yes, I was very impressed with what I would call the economy of the method. I've spun wool and that always entails making a very large amount of one ply yarn before plying the two together.

[@breebroderick21]

most definitely!!!

[@doitfancy7657]

Mary Weahkee has such a soothing tone and voice, i could sit and learn from her all day. Its absolutely beautiful how she is expanding her knowledge of traditions and way of living but most importantly she is teaching others so that knowledge and traditions isn't lost. I pray she is healthy, well and happy as she is a true gift to this world.

[@murraykriner9425]

One of the most intriguing handcrafting video's I've seen in a great many years. Her mention of its history and its migration, along with its detailed presentation makes me want to learn the craft myself. Bless you dear lady for passing forward a tradition of immense wealth.

[@24get24give]

well said, and so true!

[@sunnyskye1106]

The condition our world is headed in, we may need your skills more than you thought. Thank you. I have a yucca in my yard. I will be trying this.

[@s3ntin3l60]

I can hunt you make clothes. We'll trade 🤗

[@chafester4886]

This is so true.

[@dcinrb8538]

This was a beautiful video of great quality and clarity. Be respectful and harvest from the bottom. Otherwise, you will be speared if you harvest from the center, which may kill the plant. 🌵

[@mysterym444]

Nope we’re going to the future, take a seat 💺

[@joea4637]

Don't forget to give if you take.

[@Eyy98976]

We need more people like her on this planet. What an amazing soul

[@LaynieFingers]

This makes me think about the old jokes about basketweaving being an easy college course. Like most things, as you learn more you realize just how much there is to learn and just how hard it can actually be. You make this look easy, and I imagine that's from the years you've put into learning how to do this and all of the hours you've put into practicing. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us!

[@joea4637]

Were basket weavers sit and smile.

[@sallyweiss1153]

The best part

[@AnthonyBurrito1313]

Underwater though

[@aweeks062]

I took basket weaving in college lol!

[@alexia3552]

Also a joke to consider it a useless skill

[@hopefeole4238]

Wonderful tutorial, I'm from Colombia S. A., and I remember my grandmother weaving fans to fan the fire, and mats to sleep on for when family visited. Thanks for bringing back memories.

[@paperwork1125]

What plants did she use to weave?

[@alexandrahenderson4368]

@@paperwork1125 you'll know when you see them.

[@jimhood1202]

Here in Panama we use the stalk from the "Panama hat palm" or atún as it's called locally. Peel off the hard, strong outer layer in strips about 8mm wide and get weaving. Baskets, fans etc.

[@bobcharlie2337]

My mom is from Colombia too. My family weaves handbags, bracelets, bowls to keep things in and hats. So cool.

[@jazzj9544]

How ingenious the Native Americans are. Living harmoniously with their environment and Nature giving them what they need. I loved watching this and learning the techniques. I remember my Grandma teaching me how to weave baskets when I was young, has always stayed with me one of my fondest time spent with my elders. Thank you for posting this it should always be passed down through generations so it is not lost. Eternal knowledge.

[@kp7032]

Thank you for sharing your traditional tools and demonstrating how to make items of clothing and footwear, whilst honouring and thanking the plants for their gifts.

[@sabineneumann6810]

This is the knowledge that will count. Thank you for sharing it.

[@Traderjoe]

I love her voice. Its very comforting and I wish I could hear her talking as I fall asleep, feeling safe in her care.

[@24get24give]

yes,she should write a book, in her copious , I'm sure, free time then do the audio version of it, too then everyone would be happy!

[@suemauer5965]

@@24get24give Or, everyone could just listen to her voice in these videos; maybe this is a more down-to-earth way for her to do what you suggest?

[@stevenolan7972]

Thank you for sharing , keeping the old ways alive is priceless.

[@normanshadow1]

You're a beautiful, gentle teacher. Thank you for sharing. I would wear those sandals!

[@rmontoya888]

I live so close to you and my grandfathers mother was Santa Clara Pueblo. Bless you for keeping this traditional art alive.

[@carolineibanez841]

I learn more from KZbin the I did in school. Thank you for sharing your history and knowledge with me.

[@medaily57]

Wow, the weaving is awesome. I was blown away with how you plied the yarn. I just learned to spin wool last year, but have yet to ply my yarn. Your technique makes it seem effortless. I am sure that speaks volumes to your experience. I can only dream my plied wool looks half as good as your plied yucca! Thank you for the video!

[@tommyzolman6770]

Ingenuity of the early people always surprises me. Thank you for this video.

[@kell353]

Skills we have forgotten as a people but may again need. Very cool.

[@ingridwinn9082]

When you said if you take from a plant you must give to it. It made me feel more respect and thankful for the produce in my garden. Thanks for teaching that. I have this yucca in my back yard. I learned how to eat the flowers. But never learned if you could eat the roots

[@Gweynn5]

Wow..... that was a great lesson. PROUD TO BE NATIVE AMERICAN!!🇺🇸♥️

[@mashtiatash3713]

Thank you for educating us, showing us how our ancestors were very smart and how they passed it on to the generations.

[@Mariana-ud7dw]

Never ceases to amaze me the ingenuity of the native peoples and their traditional ways for making things.

[@bearclawws]

It's easy to see what a talented and wonderful human being Mary Weahkee is. Thank you for sharing!

[@twanablevins]

I love watching Mary Weahkee work and create. Such a blessing to get to learn from her.

[@debbietwhittington4477]

Beautiful. You are a wonderful teacher. I am thankful that you are reviving lost crafts. For future generations thank you

[@donnavorce8856]

Watching you making that cord appears to be magic. Thanks for an excellent demo.

[@sandyphipps9725]

What a lovely and beautiful soul you have Mary. Thank you for your turtorial. xox

[@hotpocket_42o]

the energy off this video is soooo good

[@dleigh4534]

Thank you so much for reviving an almost lost art!! Now more than ever people need to get back to simpler times, arts and traditions and practices!!

[@gretabrown1408]

Thank you for showing this ancient craft. It makes me humble when I think of the work and time it takes to make this sandal and the craftsman who made it .

[@nancypeteja6560]

I have never seen this before. Amazing, the knowledge of using plants to help in everyday life. TFS.😊 💖 👍

[@atsukorichards1675]

This reminds me of our own plant-woven sandals, Waraji (草鞋), of the old days in Japan. They are made with the rice straw ropes.

[@1tuinman]

It reminds me of the sandals we buy in Spain called "alpargatas" !

[@PsychologicalApparition]

Native culture is a part of Asian and Siberian ancestry - so, this technique may have been inspired of Asia!

[@esino6667]

How peaceful this Lady is! I love this approach to life

[@wendywilson1736]

This is so interesting, Mary Weahkee! Thank you for showing us your crafts, and manufacturing.

[@jessehernandez3943]

Any possible future videos on how to make the sewing kit? I live for this ancestral knowledge.

[@24get24give]

good idea, I would like this, too though I don't know where I'd get the antlers from I don't hunt or know anyone who does anymore

[@DarkMoonDroid]

I would ask permission first.

[@BozBozo]

Antlers are dropped seasonally, so are a renewable resource and not from hunting.

[@carrieevert1518]

You might want to talk to a taxidermist. A lot of times there is left over leather and antlers from a 4 point deer that the hunter doesn't want. A sneaky little mouse nibble on the antlers of my husband's first deer kill. Was he ever mad! I think I have enough to make a few of the nice tools.

[@raynechantel2738]

Wow amazing - a technique that was almost completely lost - Thank goodness this wonderful lady wants to keep this skill and tradition alive - maybe you don't wear them any longer but knowing about the plants and the skill to make it if you need/want to! AMAZING.

[@dr.froghopper6711]

I just discovered this channel. I’m a New Mexico native born. I’ve traveled pretty extensively. I’ve always come home to NM. From early childhood I’ve believed that, if I could learn the old ways of living out here, I could live pretty much anywhere. Dine’, Pueblo, Apache, so many others have much to teach us.

[@samshambles391]

I don't know how this ended up in my recommendations, but I'm gonna watch all this lady's videos now.

[@jimhood1202]

Really great explanation. Loved the rolling technique on your thigh to put the twist into the cordage. I'm going to try it with banana leaf fiber. Thanks for posting and best wishes from Panama 🇵🇦

[@nancyfrix6858]

Mary Weahkee, beautiful sandals, you must be very proud to continue the art of making them. I love them!

[@codybaggett5329]

I'm not gonna lie, u was not expecting it to be such beautiful and culturally rich learning experience. She really made a handsome sandal that I would 100% wear nowadays instead of rubber/plastic, or leather.

[@karennewberry4694]

That sewing kit is a beautiful work of art in itself. Beautiful and functional. Love it.

[@hugs3802]

This was fascinating. I thoroughly enjoyed watching and especially listening.

[@cactuswren9771]

Mary!! Cool technology is right!! Wow, thanks for showing us how!! If these get a hole on the bottom, can you weave a patch, or just make a new pair? Thank you for keeping the art alive. Very relaxing to watch you work. I called my 85 year old Hopi friend and told him about your work and this wonderful video. Spent the next hour hearing many stories of his young boyhood on the rez. Your video brought back good memories of long-gone loved ones and happier times to both of us. Thanks!

[@gailjackson6557]

Wonderful to keep your arts alive. We need to do this. Thankyou for sharing. ❤️👌⭐

[@persnicketyu5561]

Thank you so much for this video, the lost knowledge in making these types of items for daily life is incredible. I love learning about things like this!

[@LavenderLori406]

Thank you Mary! I especially appreciate how you roll the fibers on your leg and let go to take up the twist. Genius!

[@bludaizee24]

This is really wonderful, thank you so much for sharing this knowledge with us!

[@roserg5611]

So much knowledge, that we today have no idea of what the Earth gives us. We need to respect Mother Earth for all she gives...sadly, we are killing our own environment. Thank you.

[@dhesyca4471]

Thank you for the education! I love that you thank the plants when you harvest from them. ❤️

[@coleenoliva291]

Absolutely amazing. You can see the years of crafting in her hands. Very humbling.

[@MsBerna]

I love her teachings! Wish I could attend a seminar one day.

[@ecivilma7464]

Remarkable! One of my passions when I was a young teenager was archeology! If I would of moved into a new home with a yard full of these plants, I never would of guest I was supplied with the tools needed to build these. How ignorant we are, thanks to this teacher! Love you're classes!

[@TheMaxwellee]

"It's a cool technology" - very true. Thank you Mary.

[@banaabekwegirl5731]

Mary Weahkee, you are an amazing artisan and teacher, with remarkable knowledge. Thanks for sharing so much.

[@crowznest438]

Very interesting; I would never have guessed the roasting of the leaves. And yes, you do make it look simple. : )

[@brendadavis4254]

She is so smart... and this is very interesting. When I'm watching I just want it to go on and on and not stop.

[@cherieiduke1723]

Thank you for not letting this die.

[@5x535]

What a wonderful teacher you are Mary. Thank you.

[@rynospence1457]

My new favorite channel, new favorite human being. Absolutely amazing. Thank you so much for sharing all this beautiful knowledge🙏🏻❤️

[@CBray-hq7jc]

You are Amazing! So good that you are protecting and passing on this knowledge of ancient custom and technology! Thank you!

[@DaliwolfBacon]

That sewing kit was awesome! Also...like other's have said...give something back to the plant is exactly what we all should be doing!

[@mastinomama8939]

Thank you very much for the video, and for keeping traditions alive.

[@stepitup5409]

Love Marys voice

[@lovelylisawarriorqueen7923]

Yes, it's very soothing and easy to listen to

[@wildershoney2439]

This is FREAKIN AWESOME! 🥰

[@grimreaper6557]

she makes it look so easy but you can tell she has years if not a life time of experiance Thank you for this awesome Video she uses no modern tools its amazing how she did this it shows how advanced The People were

[@loriknechtel2387]

I am so happy that someone is teaching the ways of the past. You did a wonderful job. Would love to see more. God Bless

[@amandab9702]

The range of knowledge she has is stunning and regardless if she's talking about animals. plants or the origin of a certain handiwork the respect in everything she does for people, plants and animals is something I'm in awe of. If we were all so respectful of each other and our planet the world would be a much better place. What a wonderful teacher in terms of knowledge and manor. A literal lifetime of knowledge that I'm thankful she shares so generously.

[@Rosesraspberries72]

Absolutely beautiful 💕💕 what I love most about these shoes is that we can still be a conduit to Mother Earth. Nearly all of us wear rubber soles shoes now and we can’t connect with the earth energies for grounding us. I’m in Australia, but these plants can be found everywhere. Now I’m curious to find out how the local Aboriginal’s made shoes, for they would of used different native plants. So much ancient knowledge lost, and it’s the simple things in life that can mean survival. Thank you for sharing this wonderful enlightening video 🦋🙏🏼🦋💕

[@resourcedragon]

Off the top of my head, I'm not aware of our indigenous people making shoes, either from plants or from skins or leather. (That doesn't mean that none of them did.) What I do know is that their dilly bag weaving was superb. My understanding is that they used human hair to make them - again, that may have varied by location.

[@Rosesraspberries72]

resourcedragon Hi, yeah I done a quick google search and some did make shoes, the ones I saw were made from emu feathers. They actually use to trade these shoes with early settlers.

[@foozmanagement6513]

I could listen to you all day long! Think you are my new favourite instructor. As a professional shoe maker I love the historical techniques that go into the making of these shoes and appreciate your very clear instructions. Thanks for sharing

[@bolombrom]

her voice is mesmerizing, and what a honest and respectful way of life...!!!!

[@chrislittebrant5235]

Thank you Mary, wonderful demonstration.

[@sharonkeller7397]

I enjoyed this so much!! My Mother loved her Yucca plants she had in our yard. They may not be the same kind as you showed but still made me think of her. I'm a descendant of Choctaw Indians and have always been interested in all things Native American, just as my Mother has. I loved seeing the sewing tools. They are so unique and I think beautiful. I do a number of crafts so seeing them is so interesting! Your sandals came out so beautifully! What a treasure your knowledge is, thank you.

[@theresa_lili]

Amazing how people have the where with all to come up with ideas. Joy to learn of these techniques. Thank you for sharing.

[@oddduck2298]

You are an amazing teacher. Thank you for sharing this with us.

[@108mle]

Having watched this and the other video of the turkey feather blanket these two plants remind me of the way linen is made from flax.

[@kabookiearts6199]

Thanks for sharing! I have these plants in my yard and it is soo cool to know how people used them!

[@margjones5889]

Thank you 🙏 I love being in your presence Ms. Mary. Your knowledge of the materials combined with your genuine love for nature, creates a safe, splendid environment to learn in. The obvious respect you have for nature extends to all living things - Including myself. A white- she - Hispanic - black - Jewish - native-American - Yogin experiencing the world through my “devices” Namaste

[@terryolsson4145]

Thank you Mary. Sandals were ingenious. Love to learn about your culture, which i have always revered and admired.

[@glomontero6011]

Thank you for taking the time to learn this, that all who have interest may also learn and pass it on as you are passing it on to me. Thank you! Thank you for this knowledge sister. I only recently have come to know of my tribe so I’m making some connection and feel comforted to learn how much has been preserved.

[@cosmiccoyotedog-doreenb9605]

Your teaching is absolutely amazing. Thank you for showing and sharing your wonderful work. I hope you continue demonstrating the ways of the elders.

[@judihart9658]

🤔☝️I was just thinking about making my own moccasins yesterday.& TY! For sharing Mary💖👏👍😎 #🤔Palm Sandals!😀 just put a smile on my face just thinking about it.🙂 &Happy Mothers Day💖to all Moms💖keeping the old craft& hobby skills alive.TY! For sharing.💪💖👏👍😎🙂

[@Shatterpath]

This technique is fascinating. There's so much story in how the ancients lived and I'm delighted to have spent the time revisiting that with you, Thank you.

[@talknewz7617]

Its good to see you bringing back Native culture : )

[@soleclaw6521]

This is beautiful! Thank you for teaching this to us!! That sewing kit is amazing, also! I wish I had one. The deer horn one is really fascinating and beautiful. Whoever created it is so talented!

[@ladybuggriffis2299]

I am part blackfoot and part French my husband was full Mohawk and we do homemade native things but you are amazing . I love to watch your videos because I can learn much from you.thank you I enjoyed the feather blanket also....Aho.

[@pinguinoramirez8728]

I met this you once, you showed me how to make a paint brush. That's all I use for painting now. Thank you for being generous with your knowledge!❤️

[@ev500sam]

What a beautifully unique sewing kit! An Amazing craftsman too!

[@rezkitty397]

I never seen a yucca shoe or sandal made so very interesting demonstration. Thank you 🙋☺😉💜💚💗

[@thesilentworld9556]

Thank you, Mary. I learned new things from Native American crafts. You are truly craft skills!!!

[@elaineplant8058]

Finding your channel has been the highlight of my day! Thank you sweet lady!