The Seri Indians

Prevailing belief is that the Seri neglect their dead and this rests on a considerable body of evidence. Mortuary cérémonies attain their highest development in connection with females, unusual for a Native American group. Very few cemeteries still exist. On the death of a matron, a grave is scooped out by means of shells a few yards from her home. The deceased is buried in a pelican-skin robe and ordinary costume. The knees are flexed and up against the thorax. The individual's personal objects, or fetishes, are buried with her, as is food for the long journey. Excerpts only. Excellent graphics.