XIX—INDIAN CEREMONIES FOR BOY SCOUTS
Indian ceremonies are always in demand, and I shall give you several which have been specially adapted to your use from the ancient rites of the Sioux nation.
THE AY´-CHAY-TEE, OR SCOUT’S BONFIRE
This is supposed to bring success in war and hunting, and may be kindled by a band of Scouts on the eve of a long hike, or any important undertaking, or as a ceremony of initiation of new members.
The one appointed to act as Leader or Medicine-man lays in a convenient place a pile of dry wood for the ceremonial fire, to which the Scouts are summoned by a herald. He goes the rounds with a camp horn, bidding all come to the Ay´-chay-tee when the sun is at a certain height in the heavens, preferably near sunset. The Medicine-man should be attired in full Indian costume, and prepared to act the part of a man full of years and wisdom. As fire is the symbol of enthusiasm, energy, and devotion, and is with the Indians a strictly masculine emblem, it is fit that the young men gather about it before going upon a journey or “war-path.”
When all have assembled in the usual circle, dressed either in Indian costume or Scout’s uniform, the Leader, standing in the center of the ring beside the prepared wood, kindles a “new fire” by means of the bow and drill, flint and steel, or “rubbing sticks.”
He then takes up the long-handled calumet or peace-pipe, which has previously been filled with dried sumach leaves, red willow bark, or other aromatic herb, kindles it with a coal from the “sacred fire,” and reverently holding it before him in both hands, with the stem pointing upward and forward, exclaims:
“To the Great Spirit (or Great Mystery) who is over all!”
The Scouts answer in unison: “Ho!”
Then, turning the stem of the pipe downward, the Leader says: