Native Languages of the Americas: Wintu Indian Legends
This is our collection of links to Wintu folktales and traditional stories that can be read online.
We have indexed our Indian mythology section
by tribe to make them easier to locate; however, variants on the same
legend are often told by American Indians from different tribes, especially if those tribes are kinfolk or neighbors to
each other. In particular, though these legends come from the Wintus, the traditional stories of
related tribes like the Miwok and
Costanoan tribes are very similar.
Enjoy the stories! If you would like to recommend a Wintu legend for this page or think one of the ones on here
should be removed, please contact us and let us know.
Wintu and Yana Myths:
Collection of Yana and Wintu myths and legends.
The Rolling Head:
Wintu version of a common California Indian tale about a girl who violates taboos and becomes a rolling-head monster.
The Great Fire:
Patwin myth about Coyote saving the world from a fire.
The Origin of Clear Lake:
Patwin legend about a local lake.
A Rattlesnake Kills The Chief's Daughter:
Wintu story about a mother's revenge on the rattlesnakes.
Amamet:
Wintu legend about a dangerous mythical creature.
Bat And His Wives:
Wintu story about why the bat is blind.
Native American culture
Wintu and Yana Myths:
Contacts and FAQ page
