Page:History of Oregon Literature.djvu/44

 various animals. This is supposed to mean that during the season that both the sun and moon may be seen, the fishing is very good. The heart and lungs signify that it would take a very strong, brave Indian to fish there with a net, because it was quite a dangerous place. The cat represents the family and the tribe to which they belong. The various animals have nothing to do with the fish story, so they are evidently just incidental pictures.

There is a large rock kept in the city hall of Portland which was found in the Snake River region. The signs on this rock were made by Indian braves who desired to become warriors. As one of their tests, they would have to go to some desolate, hazardous place alone, and stay for several days. To prove that they made this journey and stayed the necessary length of time, they were required to record some picture on the rock.

There are also many burial markers, which designate their tribe and family, and tell of their deeds. The family and tribal markings appeared also on their shields.

Some of these pictures are clearly elaborate sign writings. These have many figures, marks, and many dots, but there is no record of their meaning.

One very interesting picture is in the Wishram district. This is supposed to be the guardian spirit of the Wishrams. It is made on a large flat rock in such a way that the eyes seem always to be watching every one at any angle. This picture is still very distinct.