Birch bark was essential to the every day lives of the Ojibwe people.  It was used for  house coverings, canoes, utensils, tinder and containers such as the maple syrup container illustrated here.  Birch bark is considered sacred, not only because of is extreme usefulness, but because of its connection to Winabojo, a humorous spirit who is said to have taught the Ojibwe people how to live in their natural surroundings and to prolong their lives.  In legend, Winabojo sought protection from the thunder and lightening of the Thunderbirds in a hollowed out fallen birch tree.  The tree gave him ample protection, so Winabojo blessed it and proclaimed that it would be forever useful to the people of Earth.  Because of this story, the harvesting of birch bark is a ceremonial event that often includes the offering of a gift, such as tobacco.