For the Ho-Chunk Nation, the sacred drum unites and brings people together to rejoice and celebrate. But as the number of Native language speakers dwindles, the drum and its songs have become essential guardians of cultural memory and identity. Each beat carries not just music, but the promise that Ho-Chunk culture will endure and thrive for today and for the children yet to come.
An Early Connection
Meet David Greendeer, known by a Ho-Chunk name that means “king of hearts.” From childhood, David was introduced to the traditional songs and sounds of his Nation by his father, who would sing to him and bring him to powwows.
Early on, David realized that while the drum is central, the true focus lies in the sound and harmony it creates—a heartbeat that connects everyone present. He was always taught that each drumbeat represents the heartbeat of Mother Earth, and that music holds deep spiritual meaning as a connection to the Creator.
Sacred Meaning and Cultural Role
Just as each drumbeat echoes the heartbeat of Mother Earth, every song is understood as a prayer sent out into the world. The words that are sung are considered holy, which is why people are taught to choose them with great care before they are ever spoken or voiced in song.
The songs David learned share a common essence: caring for others and strengthening community. The drum serves as a powerful unifying force, bringing people together in celebration, ceremony, and everyday moments of connection through dancing and other cultural practices.
Many Ho-Chunk songs are created to honor individuals, including veterans and other heroes, commemorating acts of courage and sacrifice. Sung in the Ho-Chunk language, these songs continue to carry deep respect and cultural meaning, which is why the drum is carefully fed, cared for, and used. It is held in the highest regard and entrusted with a sacred role in the life of the Nation.
Preservation and Continuity
The Ho-Chunk Nation faces a profound challenge: their language, once spoken by thousands, now has between 150 to 250 Native speakers remaining, almost all elders. With each passing year, the threat of losing the language grows—a race against time to hold on to identity and tradition.
The drum and its songs have become vital tools in maintaining the language, as singing in Ho-Chunk carries culture, values, and ancestral memory. For David, continuing to sing is more than personal. It is a commitment to teaching values, history, language, and governance.
By passing on songs and stories, he helps ensure that the unique perspective of the Ho-Chunk endures. The next generation learns not only words, but also the heart of their Nation, handed down from those still carrying the flame.
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The story of the Ho-Chunk drum is one of resilience, responsibility, and hope. Each beat carries language, memory, and prayer, linking past and present in a living circle of song. As David and others continue to sing and teach, they are not only honoring their ancestors but also ensuring that the heartbeat of the Ho-Chunk Nation will be heard by generations yet to come.
Learn more about the sacred drum by watching the Discover Wisconsin original short, “The Heartbeat of the Ho-Chunk – Singing of the Sacred Drum” below:
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Hailey Marien: Writer for Discover Mediaworks. A born & bred Wisconsinite with a love for fishing, hunting, and enjoying the great outdoors.
