Some Shamans of Northern California

A Shasta shaman's career begins with frequent dreams, after which he follows certain cultural prescriptions, particularly those related to the types of food he eats. Visions follow. The Hat Creek and Achomawi pursue vision quests in the mountains prior to becoming shamans. Maidu shamans living in the Sierra inherit their healing abilities and reputations. Someone who does not have a shaman for an ancestor is permitted to pursue a vision quest.