Jeff Derby

Jeff "Little Feather" Derby

NPS/Public Domain

Quick Facts

Significance:

Quarrier and master carver. He is remembered very well in the community for teaching youth the art of pipemaking, ensuring that the tradition continues.

Jeff Derby
“Little Feather”
Sisseton Wahpeton Sioux
18 February 1945 - 13 February 1987

Jeff was the son of Harvey and Ethel (Crow) Derby. He was a lifelong resident of the Pipestone area, where he attended both grade school and high school.   
 
Jeff was a master stone carver and considered one of the Pipestone Community’s best pipestone pipemakers. As an expert craftsman, he specialized in inlaid, four winds, and Hidatsa style pipes. He also gave many demonstrations in pipemaking techniques, educated youth in the art of carving, and gave presentations in many different locations.

Jeff is best remembered for his help in teaching his nieces and nephews as well as other young people the art of pipemaking.