The leader of a band of Native Americans was accorded the privilege of his rank in a number of ways.  Lodge sites might be one of those.  This Chief has painted the Mystical symbols of his life and exploits on the buffalo hide cover to proclaim his warriorhood and to appease the spirits that regulate such important things.  He would recount his coups and his exploits at important ceremonies so often the the people knew them by heart.  A good Chief always put the welfare of his people first, before his own wants and needs.  That's something all people look for in their leaders.