Arizona Historical Society
azhs.bsky.social
Arizona Historical Society
@azhs.bsky.social
"Connecting people through the power of Arizona’s history." We promote Arizona's history through museums, libraries & archives, programs, and publications. Visit us in Tempe/Phoenix, and Tucson.
The Poli'ini is more than a hairstyle, it represents cultural knowledge, girlhood, & the Hopi path from childhood to adulthood.
📸: c. 1938, photo of Hopi Maiden Sunbeam Namingha, REF: 100-0006136; c. 1938, Hopi mother dressing daughter's hair, REF: 100-0006138; REF: 100-0006141
November 19, 2025 at 9:44 PM
The whorls are created by drawing the hair out to each side & coiling it into round, shallow shapes, traditionally with the help of a wooden frame or form to keep the structure even. The final shape is both practical & deeply symbolic—an expression of Hopi identity passed down through generations.
November 19, 2025 at 9:44 PM
The hairstyle is shaped into large rounded side whorls that resemble butterfly wings, symbolizing beauty, vitality, & the transition into adulthood. In Hopi teachings, this style is worn by unmarried girls/maidens & signifies that they are preparing for future roles within their families & community
November 19, 2025 at 9:44 PM
On Veterans Day, and throughout Indigenous Peoples Heritage Month, we honor Indigenous veterans and their extraordinary contributions to our nation's history.

#VeteransDay #IndigenousPeoplesHeritageMonth #NavajoCodeTalkers #dinélanguage
November 11, 2025 at 10:03 PM
📸: c. 1930s, REF #: 44077
#ArizonaHistory #Cowboys #vintagephotography
November 6, 2025 at 6:59 PM
If you would like to support the Arizona Heritage Center's recovery and help preserve Arizona's history, please visit: bit.ly/4hK17Av . Thank you for standing with us as we preserve our shared history. 💛
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November 5, 2025 at 9:52 PM
While our doors are closed, our work continues caring for collections, restoring damaged spaces, and preparing to reopen stronger than ever. We can't wait to welcome you back on January 6, 2026, and continue sharing Arizona's story with you.
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November 5, 2025 at 9:52 PM
Arizona is home to 22 sovereign Tribal Nations. We encourage you to explore the museums, cultural centers, and events hosted by Native communities to learn more & support their ongoing work!

📸: 1886, Left to right: Yanozha, Chappo (Geronimo's son), Fun, Geronimo, REF: PC19_78153
September 24, 2025 at 4:53 PM
At AHS, we are honored to care for collections that reflect these histories and to share them in collaboration with Tribal communities.

📸: 1938, Hopi Pueblo Indian Mother Dressing Daughters Hair in the Hopi Maiden Squash Blossom Style, REF: 100-0006138
September 24, 2025 at 4:53 PM