Lula Ann Ledford

Lula Ledford was 20 years old when she started doing beadwork.  She learned from her sister Velma Lossiah.  Beadwork was always just a hobby because she worked as a truck driver.  Velma taught her how to make boloties and hair barretts, the rest she learned on her own.
Now her grandsons have learned to make beaded earrings and rop necklaces so the family tradition continues.

Lula is retired from working for the Tribe for 23 years and enjoys spending time perfecting her craft.  

Cherokee knife maker Blue Welch

“I like doing beadwork to past the time since I am retired.”