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Over 100 years ago author George Bird Grinnell, editor of Forest and Stream, founder of the Audubon Society and an advisor to President Theodore Roosevelt, was a famed explorer, naturalist and pioneer conservationist. Keenly interested in the lifestyles and welfare of Native Americans, particularly the Blackfoot, Cheyenne and Pawnee, he journeyed westward during summers to hunt and explore with the Indians, and to study their rapidly vanishing culture.
Blackfoot religion, philosophy, literature and ethics were all combined in the stories they told, and the Blackfoot storytellers relied on memory to convey the tales from one generation to the next. In Blackfoot Lodge Tales, Grinnell documents these stories as told to him by the Blackfoot, illustrating them with authentic Blackfoot drawings.
About the author
George Bird Grinnell was an American anthropologist, historian, naturalist, and writer, known for his contributions to the study of Native American cultures and conservation efforts. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he initially focused on zoology but soon developed a deep interest in the history and traditions of Native American tribes, particularly the Blackfeet. Grinnell became a prominent figure in the early conservation movement, advocating for the preservation of wildlife and natural habitats. His work as an ethnographer and historian led to the publication of several influential books and articles, where he documented Native American customs, folklore, and traditions. Grinnell's writings provided valuable insight into the lives of Indigenous peoples, preserving their stories and customs for future generations. He was also instrumental in the founding of the Audubon Society, further solidifying his commitment to conservation. Throughout his life, Grinnell collaborated with Native American leaders and became a respected figure in both the anthropological and environmental communities. His legacy lives on through his extensive body of work, which continues to educate and inspire people about the importance of cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. Grinnell was married to Elizabeth C. Grinnell.
