View source for Milton Cloth, Fur, Abalone, Goat Hair

= Milton Cloth, Fur, Abalone, Goat Hair =
''INITIATION DRAFT — Ayaawx and cultural teachings regarding traditional regalia materials used to express lineage, wealth, authority, and ceremonial rights.''

== Overview ==
Milton cloth, fur, abalone, and mountain goat hair are not simply materials used in regalia.  
Under Tsm̱syen ayaawx, they are **legal indicators of rank, wealth, House authority, and ceremonial permission.**  
Wearing or displaying these materials carries meaning that must be understood and respected.

These items appear most often in:
* button blankets,  
* headdresses,  
* dance regalia,  
* crest displays,  
* and public feasting events such as [[li’ligit]] or [[luulgyit]].

== Milton Cloth ==
Milton cloth (also called “broadcloth” or “trade cloth”) was introduced during the early fur trade.  
It quickly became a preferred material for ceremonial regalia because of its:
* durability,  
* rich colour,  
* prestige,  
* and association with wealth.

Under ayaawx:
* only those with lawful authority may wear crested blankets made from Milton cloth,  
* the colour and cut may signal lineage or event type,  
* the cloth itself can serve as a form of wealth distribution during [[Gwiikxw]].

Milton cloth blankets often protect crest rights, name rights, and House stories.

== Fur ==
Fur was used long before contact and continues to hold cultural significance.  
Furs such as:
* sea otter (historically),  
* marten,  
* beaver,  
* wolf,  
* or bear

carry symbolic meaning depending on the crest, clan, and region.

Ayaawx principles:
* Fur placed on regalia signals dignity, protection, and wealth.  
* Certain furs may only be worn by specific House leaders or ranks.  
* Improper use of fur can be a breach requiring correction ([[ha’lidzap]]).

== Abalone ==
Abalone shell is one of the most recognizable markers of wealth among coastal Nations.  
Its shimmering colour symbolizes:
* prestige,  
* spiritual blessing,  
* lineage continuity,  
* and the authority of the House.

Abalone is used for:
* mask inlays,  
* rattles,  
* headdresses,  
* dance aprons,  
* button blankets.

Ayaawx notes:
* Abalone is never used casually.  
* It marks regalia belonging to smgyigyet (nobility).  
* It cannot be added to regalia without permission from the House matriarchs ([[sigyidm hana̱'a̱]]).

== Mountain Goat Hair ==
Mountain goat hair was historically a luxury item — rare, difficult to collect, and used to create:
* dancing aprons,  
* headdresses,  
* tassels and fringes,  
* specialized garments for high-ranking people.

Ayaawx teachings:
* The presence of goat hair signifies an elevated role in ceremony.  
* It is often connected to ancient House privileges and specific adaawx.  
* Youth must be taught never to touch or play with regalia containing goat hair without permission.

== Legal Meaning Under Ayaawx ==
All four materials serve as:
* **visual law**,  
* **proof of wealth and lineage**,  
* **evidence of rightful authority**,  
* **signals that witnesses should pay attention**,  
* **markers of who is allowed to carry a crest or story publicly.**

Their use is never for decoration alone.

== Responsibilities of the Wilp ==
A House must:
* protect regalia containing these materials,  
* store them properly,  
* ensure they are worn only by those with lawful right,  
* replace them when damaged,  
* and correct misuse when it occurs.

Regalia is considered **wealth**, not clothing.

== When Misuse Occurs ==
If someone:
* wears a crest or material they have no right to,  
* alters regalia without permission,  
* claims a higher rank through materials,  
* or disrespects regalia in public,

the wilp may require:
* correction ([[ha’lidzap]]),  
* an apology,  
* witness acknowledgement,  
* or a small feast to restore order.

== Summary ==
Milton cloth, fur, abalone, and goat hair:
* carry legal, cultural, and ceremonial power,  
* must be used with respect,  
* reflect the honour ([[łoomsk]]) of the House,  
* and remain central to Tsm̱syen identity and public life.

== Notes ==
INITIATION DRAFT — Will expand as elders provide teachings on specific materials, rights, and House-level exceptions.