Skinwalkers, Wendigos, and the Witchery Way

by Kellen on October 27, 2013
Western History Collection

Just in time for Halloween!

As myths and legends of monsters and ghouls have been perpetuated through the ages, it is interesting to note that many do not have American origins. But there are some hellish legends that do. Like I discussed in my last blog, the Wendigo is a myth that originated in this country and has been passed down for generations amongst Native Americans. The legend of the Wendigo always held a great deal of realism to me more so than any goofy vampire, mummy, or Frankenstein’s Monster. The idea that one could suffer demonic possession after cannibalizing another human frightened me to the core. And the fact that, after suffering this possession, the demon could look, walk, and act like a human was truly frightening. Indian tribes believed that when one was possessed by the Wendigo they would crave human flesh. And when they partook of this ghastly meal they would steal a person’s “essence” and inherit their strength. The more these demons ate the more powerful they would become almost achieving immortality. Real cannibals have always existed in this country and they have taken many forms from Alferd Packer to Jeffery Dahmer. These men moved amongst the general public devouring human flesh with complete impunity.

Western Indian tribes also believed in supernatural beings known as Skinwalkers. The Navajo tribe especially believed that these Skinwalkers were shape-shifters who could assume the form of any animal which allowed them to travel quickly and gave them the ability to hide in plain sight. Specifically, a person is said to gain the power to become a Skinwalker upon initiation into the Witchery Way. The initiation into the Witchery Way involved murdering a close relative, especially a sibling; other crimes also associated with it were necrophilia, and grave-robbing. Once one has been initiated into the Witchery Way they become “pure evil.” It is interesting to note that in the Native culture most witches were male not female.

So as Halloween approaches with all its devilish delight, take a second look at that neighbor of yours you always suspected of being a little strange. Perhaps he is truly a Wendigo lurking in the night. Or maybe, just maybe, the family dog or cat is actually a Skinwalker in disguise. Whatever the case, lock your doors, stay up late, and have a Happy Halloween!

Submitted by raindancer17 (not verified) on Tue, 09/03/2019 - 15:32

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so is there any stories or legends of skin walker spawns or half breeds? is for how might one find these legends or stories?

Hi, Here is a link to some books that might be what you are looking for.
https://www.amazon.com/Skinwalker-Witchcraft-Related-Spiritual-Phenomena/dp/0965601404

I live out in Arizona and I saw a light on the ground and then it moved on feet then it started disapearing but another time I head screaming at midnight4:00 and saw something white out my window

The term "half breed" is derogatory. I am mixed and mixed Indigenous as well I would never call you a derogatory term so refrain from calling us that. No matter if we are mixed or full we are all Indigenous.

There is actually no full blooded anything on the planet. People are more generalized into areas and cultures. There is no full blood indigenous or European or African. As we are all made up of different people from different areas throughout time. There isn't even a pure human as everyone has different mixtures of Neanderthal, and other early humanoids. And if you don't put any value to others negative words and actions then they have no power over. If someone calls you a half breed don't get upset that's what those individuals want from you, instead ask them what full breed they come from I'm sure you would get answer with more than one "people's" or the will foolishly say one group but even that group is made up of other individuals with different paths. Only inbreds are pure breeds. But you can't do that long before it goes wrong.

The person was referring to a mix of skinwalker and human. The fact that you read it that way tells more about the hate in your heart than theirs. Why do you hold such a grudge?

Submitted by Desiree (not verified) on Sun, 10/11/2020 - 18:31

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I appreciate your ability to source my culture but please continue to be respectful by using Native American, First Nation or Indigenous when referring to us. Not “Indian” we are not Indian.

I’d prefer Indian, Casino. Not call center.
You’re okay both being called Native Americans? This wasn’t America before we were here. INDIAN is fine, they thought they landed in India. It makes sense. We lost those wars, if we had won I’m sure we’d have a better name.
It’s 2020. It’s okay to be black brown and All kinds Indian. Grow up Desiree.

Maybe it wasn’t you that was spoken of. I’m not offended by it. Maybe it’s simply how I see myself. There was enough interesting information to understand the need for multiple proper nouns as to not be repetitive. Great short read

Hi Audrey,

Actually the term "Indian" has been noted as an accepted term by Native Americans for quite some time. The largest Native American grassroots movement in the United States: American Indian Movement has the term displayed prominently in their name. They are also responsible for the American Indian Opportunities and Industrialization Center that helps with economic prosperity among their people. During protests over the names of multiple professional sports teams members of AIM carried signs that read, "Indians are people not mascots" and "Being Indian is not a character you can play" these were officially recognized statements by the group. The Pulitzer Prize winning author N. Scot Momaday, who's 7/8 Kiowa, has identified himself as Indian. Many who are high quantum, full members of many tribes identify as Indian. It is an accepted term.

Submitted by Indigenous (not verified) on Sat, 08/28/2021 - 22:11

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If you are not Indigenous please refrain from using the term American Indian. Only our peiple are allowed to use this term especially the elders. Non-Indigenous people can use Native or Indigenous.

You're not indigenous either. Neither is the rest of your tribe. You just predate the people who colonized what is now called America. You don't even seem to know the real history, as you think America isn't really India. There's no need to hold yourselves so highly. You already have more rights than other Americans for selling other tribes into slavery and appeasing the Jews, or whatever. There's no need to hold it against the other slaves of all colors and creeds.

Problem is , I love the native people. I love their way of life. When I was a child we learned the term Indian. I didnt know anything about India. Then wjen I got oldet we learned columbus was looking for the west indies. So still we called natives Indians. Now im much older and I realize they want to be called native american. And i understand. Just you cant teach an old dog new tricks.some people are just foolish and dont mean anything by it. They are just uninformed . Love my native bro and sisters. But im white and tjey probably dont care one way or another about me.

What am I? If I do not know who or where I came from? How can I call this land home when the people of this land treat me as a sacrifice? For witch is true. The evil that all races of people have put apon myself and my children would be unexcusable if our skin was not olive. You are so blessed to know who you are and have deep roots to this land. Put the evil of the past in the flames and walk away from the old ways.

What am I? If I do not know who or where I came from? How can I call this land home when the people of this land treat me as a sacrifice? For witch is true. The evil that all races of people have put apon myself and my children would be unexcusable if our skin was not olive. You are so blessed to know who you are and have deep roots to this land. Put the evil of the past in the flames and walk away from the old ways.

Thank you for addressing that issue.
I respect the content and attention to the nature of what she's talking about, however I do not appreciate the use of the term "Indian". They're not from India "directly", therefore they are not Indian.

Submitted by Tammy Jackson (not verified) on Mon, 11/02/2020 - 18:14

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Namaste Kellen Cutsforth
I Actually Have A Comment
It's About The Wendigo
As Some Legends That Arent Told About The Wendigo
The Story Of How The Wendigo Came To Be Goes Way Back

Submitted by Gary Letterhouse Sr (not verified) on Mon, 12/28/2020 - 20:36

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After watching some shows, I got curious and seriously interested as to the difference between a Wendigo and a Skinwalker, with all due respect to all Nationalities.

Submitted by Sam (not verified) on Wed, 01/27/2021 - 18:17

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People to think I'm crazy when I say this but, I saw one of these creatures not sure what it is, but I know what I saw. I also want to understand why iit crossed my path.

Hi Toby,

I wrote this blog. I can certainly connect with you. What social media sites are you on?

Submitted by Steppe (not verified) on Tue, 04/04/2023 - 22:48

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Hello, I too would live to hear and learn more about these lores and legends. Especially since it has to do with both past history and beliefs of not only Natives but also other nations and groups from the past.

Sam, I'm currently writing a novel which deals with skinwalkers, wendigos, brujos... I'd be interested in hearing more specifics about your experience. Blueotterguitars on Facebook.

Submitted by I am Something Else (not verified) on Sat, 08/28/2021 - 22:15

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For non-Indigenous people please refrain from calling us Indian or American Indian these are only terms we within the Indigenous community use especially the elders. You can call us Indigenous or Native. The name america comes from Amerigo Vespucci who was a colonizer that killed many of our people's. Respect is earned not given.

If the name America came from that, wasn't the continent actually called India, like the old maps suggest? That literally would make you Indians. Demanding others call you certain names that you don't call eachother is also a form of racism. Why are you being racist?

If the name America comes from Amerigo as you suggest, wouldn't the continent have actually been called India, like your comment and old maps suggest? Also, demanding others call you by names that you don't call eachother while trying to restrict who can call you by the names you refer to eachother as is a form of racism. So, why the racism? You literally are Indians if you originated in what is now called America.

If the name America comes from Amerigo as you suggest, wouldn't the continent have actually been called India, like your comment and old maps suggest? Also, demanding others call you by names that you don't call eachother while trying to restrict who can call you by the names you refer to eachother as is a form of racism. So, why the racism? You literally are Indians if you originated in what is now called America.

Nobody is even really indigenous. Your people may have predated the colonizers, but you too colonized the land yourselves from other tribes and moved from place to place, sometimes even crossing from other continents. So, at what point should the line really be drawn? Seems more like you guys are sour and want recognition above others for also being victims to the same villains of history. It's the government who wronged you, not the descendants of the settlers who have less rights than you.

Submitted by That Guy (not verified) on Sun, 11/07/2021 - 01:16

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I’m just sitting here reading some of these comments and thinking how preposterous it is that men and women in this country are at odds with each other over something as juvenile and insignificant as name-calling. Are we back on the playground and so immature that we honestly believe that what one calls another is relevant, meaningful, or impactful in any tangible way whatsoever? Really? Should I champion the cause seeking retribution for the way I am often called a “squid” for having served in the navy or a “coon-ass” for being born in Louisiana? Gimme a break! Grow up and get over yourselves.

Submitted by L.K. (not verified) on Sat, 02/26/2022 - 20:15

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I think skinwalkers is the most interesting thing to learn about. Oh her is something I learned, skinwalkers are a close relative to werewolves. I think that is the most interesting thing that people could learn.

Submitted by JREarth (not verified) on Mon, 08/22/2022 - 05:31

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I'm not sure this is the right place, but I am seeking advice for a friend who seems to have become the target of what we an only guess is a... don't even want to type it.... wendigo. She has had 2 extremely disturbing encounters already and lives in fear. I've read the history of this creature is rooted in indigenous culture, so I'm hoping someone might be able to share something helpful. I am aware this isn't a subject most care to discuss, but any guidance would be most appreciated.

Hi,

I work for the Denver Public Library. This really isn't the spot for this question. It is not an inquiry we can answer at this time.

Best Regards,
Kellen Cutsforth

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