AboutRichard Sutton Expertise As a direct reservation trader in all aspects of American Indian arts since 1985, I've answered questions regarding cultural property issues, origins of traditional crafts, materials and techniques, collecting, authenticity, symbols and, of course, repairs!
Experience My primary focus is on Southwester American Indian Nations and their people, but I also have experience in Plains and Northeastern traditions, having engaged in active trade and retail since 1985 and study for most of my life.
Publications I was a guest on Fox Network "Lifestyles" program, during the 1990s, to discuss how to tell forgeries, and authenticating jewelry as Native American work. I have also written extensively for our website, www.kivatrading.com and our Ebay Store.
Question Is there a symbol in cherokee meaning grandfather?
I want to get a tatoo with my grandfathers birthdate and the date of his passing. I am looking into finding a symbol or something to do with his cherokee heritage.
Answer Using a graphic symbol to connect your memories of your grandfather's life and heritage is admirable, but it may be difficult to find a single symbol without more information about the life he lead. You're in luck, however, as Cherokee is one of the few traditional American languages that developed a written alphabet during the 18th century! It was developed by the Cherokee leader Sequoya and does not resemble the Roman alphabet -- perfect for a tattoo.
I'm not able to tell you what the actual characters for the word grandfather look like, but if you contact the department in the Cherokee Tribal Government in Talequah, Oklahoma, they will likely be able to send you a visual example. I hope this helps.
