Legend of the Turtle Rattle

Legend says when Native Americans first moved into North America they called it turtle island. The turtle provided food and bowls. When the belly of the shell was split it gave them sharp tool sand weapons. they later realized that the turtle lived a very long time. they believed it had a special spirit of longevity, strength, and wisdom. The turtles became revered and honored, and were made into rattles  and hangers, and decoration for use in ceremonies. Ceremonial drums were also made from larger species. This is the meaning of the Turtle Rattle.