The Timeless Craftsmanship of Goat Skin Blankets

For centuries, goat hair has been a highly valued material for creating blankets and clothing that symbolize significant life events among the Coast Salish people. The process of collecting this precious resource was not only labor-intensive but also required strategic planning and cooperation.

According to Squamish Hereditary Chief Janice George, her great-grandfather would venture into the 'Ch'ich'iyúy Elxwíkn' (Twin Sisters, or Lion Mountains) to hunt goats and collect their wool. However, this was not a solo endeavor. The Coast Salish would trade with inland communities who were able to gather the goat's shed wool in the spring or hunt them in the mountains.

To supplement their traditional source of wool from mountain goats, the Salish people raised small dogs specifically for their fleece. These 'woolly dogs' were isolated on islands and separated from other community dogs to maintain the quality of their valuable hair. The resulting yarn was excellent for dyeing, thanks to its light colors that accepted dyes well, and fine strands that were easy to spin.

These unique canines, of the Spitz variety, had distinctive features such as curled tails, furry upright ears, and a significantly smaller size compared to other village dogs (around 17 inches high). The analysis of their bones revealed a diet rich in fish, which is not surprising given the region's abundant marine resources. Remains of these 'woolly dogs' have been found throughout the Salish and Makah settlements along the upper North Pacific Coast.

A study published in the Journal of Archaeology in September 2020 reported that domestic canine bones date back as far as 6,000 years, with finds across Salish and Makah settlements. The Coast Salish people reside from the Bute Inlet in British Columbia to the Columbia River in Oregon, a vast territory that has been home to this ancient tradition.

The production of goat skin blankets is a testament to the ingenuity, resourcefulness, and attention to detail of the Coast Salish people. This timeless craftsmanship continues to inspire awe and appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of this region.

Goat skin blanket