The cultural tapestry of the Coeur d’Alene and Spokane tribes, woven with threads of history, spirituality, and deep connection to the land, speaks of a time when the boundaries between the natural and supernatural were fluid. Within this rich tradition reside tales of extraordinary beings – Giants and Tree Men – who once roamed the lands, leaving their mark on the collective memory of these Indigenous peoples. These stories, passed down through generations, offer a glimpse into a world where the ordinary could transform into the extraordinary, and where respect for the environment was paramount.
This article delves into the descriptions and behaviors of these beings as depicted in Coeur d’Alene and Spokane oral traditions. It explores their physical characteristics, habits, and interactions with humans, shedding light on their significance within the cosmology of these tribes. The stories of Giants and Tree Men are more than just folklore; they are reflections of a worldview that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living things and the power of the unseen world.
The Formidable Giants
In the lore of the Coeur d’Alene, giants were once a familiar, albeit imposing, presence. These beings were not merely large in stature; they possessed a distinct and unsettling aura. One of their most defining characteristics was their pungent odor, often likened to the smell of burning horn. This unpleasant scent served as a warning, a signal of their approach that preceded their towering forms.
Physically, the giants were described as being taller than even the highest tipis, their height allowing them to peer down into the smoke holes of dwellings. Their faces were notably dark, some accounts suggesting that they were painted black, adding to their intimidating appearance. The giants typically adorned themselves with bearskins or other animal hides, leaving the hair intact, emphasizing their connection to the wild.
These colossal figures favored caves within rocky terrain as their dwellings, further associating them with the rugged landscape. Their diet consisted primarily of fish, and they were known to pilfer from the traps of the Coeur d’Alene people. While they were generally not considered overtly malicious, their size and strength made them a potential threat. Although accounts exist of giants from other tribes abducting women, there are no such stories within the Coeur d’Alene tradition, suggesting a somewhat more restrained presence in their territory.
The behavior of these giants varied depending on the circumstances. They were said to be more cautious when encountering multiple lodges clustered together, suggesting a sense of vulnerability when faced with a collective of people. However, when they came across a solitary tipi, they would boldly approach, their immense size casting a shadow over the dwelling. This behavior highlights a potential power dynamic between the giants and the Coeur d’Alene, where the giants felt more confident when encountering individuals or small groups.
The stories of these giants serve as a reminder of the potential dangers of the natural world and the importance of respecting the power of the unseen. Their presence in the Coeur d’Alene landscape underscored the need for vigilance and awareness, reinforcing the connection between the people and their environment. The legend of the Giants and Tree Men persists as a reminder of the powerful forces, both seen and unseen, that shape the world around us.
The Enigmatic Tree Men
In addition to the imposing giants, the Coeur d’Alene and Spokane tribes also spoke of the Tree Men, another type of supernatural being that inhabited their lands. These beings, like the giants, were characterized by a strong, unpleasant odor, a common thread that seemed to link them to the supernatural realm.
The Tree Men were typically described as wearing buffalo skins with the hair side out, further emphasizing their connection to the natural world. However, what truly set them apart was their ability to transform themselves into trees and bushes, blurring the lines between the animate and inanimate. This shape-shifting ability made them elusive and mysterious, adding to their enigmatic nature.
One particular account recounts an incident in the Spokane country, near present-day Cheney, where a group of people were dancing near a small lake. Suddenly, a foul odor permeated the air, prompting one of the dancers to exclaim, "That is the Tree Men!" Upon looking around, the people spotted four figures standing apart from one another, clad in buffalo skins. As soon as they were noticed, the figures vanished, and in their place stood four bushes. These bushes remained visible for a considerable time, serving as a tangible reminder of the encounter. The story suggests that the gaze of the people, perhaps imbued with some form of power, may have prevented the Tree Men from reverting back to their human form.
The stories of the Tree Men extend beyond these dramatic transformations. It is said that some trees, particularly those that have stood in the same spot for a very long time, are actually Tree Men in disguise. To the casual observer, they appear as ordinary trees, but beneath the surface lies a being with the ability to move and change. Furthermore, there are accounts of trees and bushes that seemingly shift locations or appear and disappear at random. These occurrences are attributed to the presence of Tree Men, who are constantly moving and transforming, making it difficult to discern their true nature.
The ability of the Tree Men to transform into trees and bushes speaks to a profound understanding of the natural world and the interconnectedness of all living things. It suggests that the boundaries between humans, animals, and plants are not as rigid as they may seem, and that transformation and change are inherent aspects of existence. The legend of the Giants and Tree Men encourages a deeper appreciation for the natural world and a recognition of the hidden forces that shape our reality.
The Giants and Tree Men are more than just figures in folklore; they are embodiments of the cultural values and beliefs of the Coeur d’Alene and Spokane tribes. They represent the power of the natural world, the importance of respecting the environment, and the interconnectedness of all living things. Their stories serve as a reminder that the world is full of mystery and wonder, and that the boundaries between the ordinary and the extraordinary are often blurred. By understanding and appreciating these stories, we can gain a deeper insight into the rich cultural heritage of these Indigenous peoples and the profound wisdom that they have to share.
