Hodinöhsö:ni’ have our own version of “Old Man Winter” who we refer to as “Hato:” This word roughly translates to “He is the cold” in English.
The legend of Hato:’ says that when the air and the winds become cold and harsh, the trees in the forest will begin to creak and bang. He is said to carry a club, swinging and hitting it against the trees, bringing the frost and the cold winds with him.
Sometimes creaking and banging will even be heard on the outside of your house, or on your doors and windows. It is said that this is Hato:’ announcing his arrival to you. This wonderful depiction of Hato:’ is by Ernie Smith (Seneca) from the Rochester Museum and Science Centre in Rochester, NY.
