The peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast carved the likeness of their totems onto vast poles. The function of totem poles varied, but overall they were historical monuments and documents. They displayed origins, lineages, supernatural experiences, exploits and acquisitions. In addition they gave the people their status in their nation and within their village. The figures recorded the past, displaying it in the present and preserving it for the future.

Cradleboards were made by many Indian tribes throughout the United States, and are still used in some locations. Though most Indian families now use strollers and the other accessories of U.S. modern culture, some have chosen to continue use of these ingenious traditional baby carriers.