Many Tender Ties: Chapter 2

The North West Company took more advantage in forming unions between themselves and an Indian woman. The Indians believed that marriage to a fur trader would provide social and economic benefits. The “alliance created a reciprocal social bond which served to consolidate his economic relationship with a stranger,” (29). The Indians were given prestige and promise of security when their daughter married a fur trader. In contrast, fur traders were given a portion of the “bountiful hunt” from the leading hunter or chief.

One interesting observation was how closely and intimately the fur trader cared for his wife and family. In some respect, become a parent enforced the bond between husband and wife. Due to life in Indian country, there were not many other options for a wife and family for a fur trader. No white women were present leaving Indian women as the only option.

In the process of courtship, the fur trader was required to pay a bride price, as it was customary for Indian culture. This included: blankets, kettles, beads, hawk-bells, guns, etc. These customs were generally followed as respect and to value the Indian tradition. The amount of goods would depend on the rank, status, and overall attractiveness of the girl. When the Indian women were preparing for marriage she exchanged her traditional clothing for European styles. They wore a shirt, short gown, petticoat and leggings. However, Indians did not view marriage as a “life contract.” When fur traders would leave for long periods of time, it was not uncommon for women to seek affection elsewhere. If and when the fur trader did return, it was the woman’s option whether or not to go back to him. In addition, polygamy was somewhat common practice among the Indians. Some fur traders participated in this practice, but most remained in monogamous relationships.

Despite the bond formed between fur trader and Indian woman, the women were not allowed to travel overseas to the trader’s native land. The problems existed within the European culture not accepting Indian women into their culture.