First Creator and Lone Man

In the Mandan tradition, the Earth began as a vast expanse of water enveloped in darkness. The First Creator and Lone Man walked upon this watery surface when they noticed a small movement—a little duck. They sent the duck diving to the depths of the ocean, and it returned with sand. Using this sand, First Creator and Lone Man formed the Earth. First Creator took the southern part and crafted a landscape of hills, valleys, mountains, and flowing streams. Lone Man took the north, creating flat plains dotted with lakes and ponds.

First Creator populated his land with an abundance of life, including Buffalo, Deer, and Antelope. In contrast, Lone Man’s creation featured Cattle and Sheep. First Creator was not entirely pleased with Lone Man’s work, remarking, “There’s nowhere to hide!” But Lone Man simply shrugged and replied, “Well, it’s done now. It’s too late to change it.” Over time, men and women inhabited the land. When difficult times arose, Lone Man witnessed the people’s suffering and chose to share in it. He entered a piece of corn that a young girl was consuming, and she gave birth to him as a human. Living among the tribe, Lone Man was pure, good, and always acted as a peacemaker. Though he never married, children adored him and followed him eagerly. He imparted many important teachings to the people.

Eventually, the time came for Lone Man to depart. Before leaving, he instructed the tribe to erect a cedar trunk as a totem pole in the village center, to paint it red, and to burn incense before it. “This cedar is my body,” he explained, “which I leave with you to protect you from all harm.” With those words, he departed. As for First Creator, he transformed into a Coyote.

This retelling is based on a living tradition belonging to the Mandan people.