Sitting Bull's War Bonnet

This build pays tribute to Sitting Bull (c. 1831-1890), one of the most prominent Hunkpapa Lakota leaders of the Great Sioux Nation.

The centerpiece of this set is a detailed build of Sitting Bull’s war bonnet, currently on display at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto.

Accompanying the war bonnet is a museum placard and a mini diorama depicting a young Sitting Bull, newly named after bravely counting coup against a Crow warrior during a raiding party.

He stands proudly with the golden eagle feather, shield and horse gifted to him by his father. The backdrop features traditional Lakota tipis in the Dakota Territories, with bison grazing on the plains.

In Lakota culture, war bonnets are traditionally worn by esteemed warriors and chiefs who have demonstrated great courage and dedication to their people. Sitting Bull’s was made of golden eagle tail feathers, weasel skins, glass beads and dressed hide.  

I hope this set encourages builders to learn more about the history and traditions of Native Americans. If you’d like to see this build come to life, please click the "Support" button!