Stick gambling

Colville stick game, Colville Reservation, ca. 1908

Stick gambling is a traditional form of gambling indigenous to the First Nations communities in North America, particularly popular among the tribes in the Pacific Northwest. This game, deeply rooted in cultural traditions, is not merely a form of entertainment but also a social activity that strengthens community bonds and preserves cultural heritage.

Gameplay

Stick gambling involves two teams, each with a varying number of players, though typically large groups participate. The game is played with a set of sticks, and sometimes bones or other items, which are divided into two distinct sets: one for counting points and the other, often concealed, used to determine the outcome of each round. The objective is for one team to guess the location or arrangement of the hidden items held by the opposing team.

The game begins with a ceremonial or ritual aspect, emphasizing its cultural significance. The guessing team sings traditional songs, which may serve to distract the opposing team or to invoke good luck. The hiding team conceals the objects in their hands or under pieces of cloth, making it challenging for the guessers to determine the exact arrangement.

Scoring and rules can vary significantly between different communities, reflecting the diversity of traditions among First Nations. However, the common goal across variations is to accurately guess the arrangement of the hidden items, thereby winning sticks or points from the opposing team.

Cultural Significance

Stick gambling is more than a game; it is a cultural event that involves storytelling, singing, and sometimes dancing. It provides an opportunity for elders to pass down traditions, stories, and songs to younger generations, ensuring the preservation of their cultural identity. The game is often part of larger gatherings and ceremonies, including potlatches, where communities come together to celebrate, feast, and engage in various traditional activities.

Modern Adaptations

While stick gambling remains a traditional activity, it has seen adaptations and changes in the modern era. Some communities have introduced new rules or ways of playing to keep the game relevant and engaging for younger generations. Despite these changes, the core aspects of community engagement, cultural expression, and the ceremonial nature of the game have been preserved.

Challenges and Preservation

The preservation of stick gambling, like many other indigenous traditions, faces challenges in the modern world. Urbanization, cultural assimilation, and the loss of language and traditional practices threaten its continuity. However, efforts by First Nations communities to revitalize and maintain their cultural heritage have helped in keeping the tradition of stick gambling alive. Educational programs, cultural festivals, and inter-tribal gatherings serve as platforms for the transmission of knowledge and traditions associated with the game.