From Edward Curtis’ Field Notes:

“During a period of about four months, beginning usually in the middle of November, the members of the secret society devote themselves exclusively to the winter dances and the accompanying feasts, potlatches, payment of marriage debts, and other festivities. No work not absolutely essential to existence or to the progress of the ceremony is performed.” – Edward Curtis

The North American Indian, Volume 10, The Kwakiutl, 1915. Portfolio plate no. 348.