Rattles at the Shako:wi Cultural Center
at the Oneida Indian Nation

Turtle Rattles
This is the most important of the Iroquois rattles and most likely to be used in sacred ceremonies. The rattle is made from a snapping turtle, box turtle or mud turtle and filled with seeds or gravel.

Horn and Bark Rattles
This corn rattle is made from a cow horn, hollowed out and filled with seeds or gravel. It is shaken or alternately shaken and slapped into the palm of the hand to maintain the beat. It is used by singers standing or sitting in a circle, facing in, or by the leader of a dance.

Deer Toe Rattles
Deer toes are strung along leather thongs and worn about the knees not only for masculine adornment, but to keep the rhythm dancing. The shaking sound is made when the leg is raised in dancing and the sound of the foot striking the floor matches the percussive sound of the rattles held by the singers.

Shako:wi is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. almost every day of the year. It is closed on holidays including American Indian Day (the Friday before Labor Day). Group tours by prearrangement. There is no admission fee. All Iroquois Gift Shop on the premises.

Located on Nation lands about 35 miles east of Syracuse, NY, Shako:wi is a focal point for the culture and history of the Oneida People. Here Nation Members meet to share more about their heritage, and in turn share it with their friends. Stop by to find out more about the Nation next door, the Oneida Indian Nation. Easily accessible from anywhere!

Directions:
From East to West:
NYS Thruway to Exit 33, Verona NY
Left on Rt. 365 - Right on Rt. 5 - Left on Rt. 46
About 2 1/2 miles to Nation Territory.
Left at flashing yellow light.

From North to South:
I-81 to NYS Thruway to Exit 33, Verona NY
Left on Rt. 365 - Right on Rt. 5 - Left on Rt. 46
About 2 1/2 miles to Nation Territory.
Left at flashing yellow light.

For more information, call 1-315-829-8801.