blackpanem, The Boyer's bible, I think volume one, has pictures of Iroquoian bows. Mostly they were hickory, some quite ornamental, just resist the temptation to carve a False face. There are many today that still put store in that. I made a few of them, one is of a type that has scallops running down one side with holes to tie on things like scalp locks, feathers, and such. You wouldn't it would shoot to look at it, but it shoots fine. It is still being used by the Keepers of the Fire from what I understand. If you buy the book you not only get the pictures, but information on how to make a good shootable bow, and just possibly the seed that may grow into a lifetime of enjoyment. Good luck, it sounds like a very worthwhile project.
Robby