High End Native American Artifact Auction
Lot 249:
101 Wild West Show Beadwork Knife & Sheath Stage Prop
101 Wild West Show Beadwork Knife & Sheath. This knife and sheath were reportedly a prop used in the 101 Shows in the early 1900’s. It is in excellent condition. Very minor restoration needed as shown in photos where bird bone beads and bead dangles need replaced. Here is some information about the 101 Wild West Show from showmansmuseum.org – "The 101 Ranch was a sprawling 110,000 acres of leased Indian lands that spread across four counties. It was founded in 1879 by Col. George W. Miller, a Confederate veteran. The 101 was a working showplace, self sufficient and employed thousands of people." "There were close to 80,000 people on the ranch opening day with the first Wild West Show. And no wonder what with such attractions as the Apache prisoner Geronimo, Buffalo Bill, Tom Mix, Bill Pickett and Lucille Mulhall, plus a buffalo hunt and barbecue, Indian sports and dancing, riding and roping contests, bands and a gigantic parade." "The 101 Ranch Wild West Show lasted 35 years. From 1905 to 1939 the 101 Ranch Real Wild West Show thrilled audiences and gave life to a bygone era." There is a world of information on this show which traveled the world and was based out of Oklahoma in the first part of the 1900’s. It is likely the Oglala Lakota who were known for being "Show Indians" that made this beadwork sheath and knife. The knife is one piece of steal wrapped in rawhide. Knife measures 13 1/8". Sheath 12 1/2" with a 30" sling.
Condition: Ancient Authentic
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