He Sought People To Eat; He Preferred Women: Rock Giants of California, Tales of the Miwok Indians

In this article, we explore the fascinating tales of the Miwok Indians of Northern California, particularly their stories about rock giants. These legends, passed down through generations, reveal a rich tapestry of mythology that intertwines with the natural world and the experiences of the Miwok people.

Key Takeaways

• The Miwok Indians have a rich tradition of storytelling, particularly about rock giants.
• These giants are depicted as fearsome creatures that prey on humans, especially women.
• The stories serve as both entertainment and moral lessons, reflecting the values and beliefs of the Miwok culture.

The Miwok Legends

The Miwok Indians, who lived in Northern California, have a unique collection of myths that tell of rock giants. These giants are not just figments of imagination; they represent a significant part of the Miwok cultural heritage. The stories often depict these giants as monstrous beings who lived in caves and had a taste for human flesh, particularly that of women.

One of the most notable giants in these tales is Ellan, a giant as tall as a pine tree. He roamed the land, capturing and eating people. The Miwok believed that he could catch ten men at a time, holding them between his fingers. His hunger drove him southward, where he visited various villages, consuming nearly all the inhabitants before returning north.

The Fall of Ellan

The story of Ellan takes a turn when the people he terrorized decide to fight back. They discover his sleeping place and attempt to harm him with arrows, but he is impervious to their attacks. In a clever twist, they send Uum the Fly to find Ellan’s weak spot. After much effort, Uum discovers that biting him under the heel causes pain. This revelation leads the villagers to set traps along Ellan’s path, ultimately leading to his demise.

Once Ellan is dead, the villagers face a dilemma: what to do with his body? A wise man suggests burning him, and as they do, they keep a close watch for any part of him that might escape. The whites of his eyes fly away, but a small bird named Chick Chick manages to retrieve them, ensuring that Ellan remains dead. This act leads to the transformation of the first people into various animals, marking the beginning of the animal kingdom as we know it.

Modern Myths of the Miwok

The Miwok also have more contemporary tales of rock giants, such as CH Halam, who resides in caves near Calaveras County. He is known to carry a large basket and prefers to eat women, luring them with cries that mimic a baby. His cave is filled with the remains of his victims, and the Miwok people have a deep-seated fear of placing their dead in caves, as it would attract giants like CH Halam.

Another giant, Ule, is said to live in the Chowchilla Foothills. He, too, preys on unsuspecting individuals at night, reinforcing the idea that these giants are a constant threat in the Miwok worldview.

The Significance of These Stories

These tales serve multiple purposes. They entertain, educate, and instill a sense of caution among the Miwok people. The rock giants symbolize the dangers that lurk in the world, and the stories remind listeners of the importance of community and vigilance.

Moreover, the Miwok myths reflect their relationship with nature. The transformation of the first people into animals illustrates a deep respect for the environment and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

Conclusion

The stories of the Miwok Indians about rock giants are more than just folklore; they are a window into the culture, beliefs, and values of a people who have inhabited California for thousands of years. These legends remind us of the power of storytelling and its role in shaping our understanding of the world. As we reflect on these tales, we can appreciate the rich heritage of the Miwok and the lessons their stories continue to impart today.