Totem Poles of the Pacific Northwest — Reading Comprehension

Totem poles are tall wooden poles carved by Native American groups in the Pacific Northwest. The Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples are known for this tradition. These poles stand in villages and forests. They tell stories about families, animals, and important events.

The process begins with finding a tall cedar tree. Cedar wood is strong and easy to carve. Carvers use tools to shape the wood. They carve figures such as eagles, bears, and wolves. Each figure is important. For example, an eagle can show strength. A bear can mean bravery. The carver uses paint to add color and detail.

Totem poles are made for many reasons. Some honor a clan or family. Others celebrate a special event, like a wedding. Sometimes, a pole is built to remember a loved one. Totem poles also help teach lessons. They show what is important to the group.

Building a totem pole takes teamwork. The village gathers to help raise the pole. People sing and dance at a special party called a potlatch. At a potlatch, leaders share stories about the new pole. One chief said, “These poles hold our history. They remind us who we are.”

Over time, totem poles can wear down. People fix old poles or carve new ones. This keeps their stories alive for new generations.

Custom and heritage are important to the Pacific Northwest peoples. They use totem poles to show pride in their history.

Interesting Fact: The world’s tallest totem pole is over 160 feet tall. It stands in Alert Bay, Canada.

Who is known for making totem poles?

What wood is used for totem poles?

What does an eagle on a pole mean?

Why do people hold a potlatch?

How are old totem poles cared for?

What is a clan?

Totem poles teach lessons. True or false?

What does 'heritage' mean?