The Pit River Tribe stands as a testament to resilience and cultural perseverance. It is a federally recognized tribe comprised of eleven distinct bands of Indigenous peoples, all originating from the northeastern region of California. Their story is one woven with deep connections to the land, profound cultural traditions, and a history marked by both hardship and unwavering determination to preserve their heritage. This article delves into the multifaceted identity of the Pit River Tribe, exploring their history, culture, and contemporary life.
Official Identity and Location
Officially recognized as the Pit River Tribe, the tribal headquarters are located at 36970 Park Ave, Burney, CA 96013. Communication with the tribe can be established via phone at (530) 335-5421 or fax at (530) 335-3140. Further information is readily accessible on their official website: www.pitrivertribe.org. This website serves as a crucial platform for disseminating information, promoting tribal initiatives, and fostering connection within the community and beyond.
Names and Their Meanings
The Pit River Tribe carries a rich tapestry of names, each imbued with historical and geographical significance. The term "Achumawi," translating to "river," reflects their intimate relationship with the waterways that have sustained them for generations. "Atsugewi" derives from "atsuke," a Native term designating a specific location along Hat Creek. The common name, "Pit River Indians," originates from the ingenious practice of digging pits near the river to trap game, particularly deer. These names offer glimpses into the tribe’s history, resourcefulness, and deep connection to the land.
Throughout history, the tribe has also been known by various alternate names, reflecting different periods and perspectives. These include XL Ranch, Big Bend Rancheria, Likely Rancheria, Lookout Rancheria, Montgomery Creek Rancheria, Roaring Creek Rancheria, Hat Creek Indians, and Pitt River Indians. These alternate names provide valuable historical context and demonstrate the evolving perception and documentation of the tribe.
Geographical Roots and Traditional Territory
The ancestral lands of the Pit River Tribe encompass a vast and diverse landscape in northeastern California. The Achumawi people traditionally inhabited the area along the Pit River, a region framed by the majestic Mount Shasta to the northwest, the volcanic Lassen Peak to the southwest, and the rugged Warner range to the east. The Atsugewi, on the other hand, were divided into two groups: the Pine Tree People, residing in the densely forested area north of Mount Lassen, and the Juniper Tree People, inhabiting the drier plains in and around Dixie Valley, northeast of Mount Lassen. Their collective homeland extended along the Pit River from Big Bend to Goose Lake, reaching towards the present-day boundary between California and Oregon. This expansive territory reflects the tribe’s historical presence and intimate knowledge of the land.
Political Structure and Governance
The Pit River Tribe operates under a constitution formally adopted in August 1964. The tribe was officially recognized in 1976, and their constitution was ratified in 1987. Each of the eleven bands is represented in the tribal council, ensuring a voice for all constituent communities within the tribal government. This inclusive structure underscores the importance of unity and collective decision-making within the tribe. The tribal headquarters are located in Burney, California, serving as the central hub for administrative and governmental operations.
Linguistic Heritage
The eleven bands of the Pit River Tribe speak two closely related languages: Achumawi and Atsugewi (Atsuge and Apwaruke). Nine bands speak Achumawi, while two speak Atsugewi. These languages are classified within the northern group of the proposed Hokan "superstock" of languages. A subgroup called Palaihnihan has been suggested specifically for these two languages. The preservation and revitalization of these languages are vital for maintaining the tribe’s cultural identity and transmitting ancestral knowledge to future generations.
Tribal Divisions and Related Groups
The Pit River Tribe is comprised of eleven distinct bands, each with its own unique history and identity. These bands are:
- Achumawi Band
- Atsugewi Band
- Ajumawi Band
- Astarawi Band
- Atwamawi Band
- Hammawi Band
- Hewisedawi Band
- Imawi Band
- Itsatawi Band
- Kosalektawi Band
- Madesi Band
The tribe also has ties with other Indigenous groups, including the Alturas Indian Rancheria, Redding Rancheria, Susanville Indian Rancheria, and the Quartz Valley Indian Reservation. These connections reflect the complex network of relationships and shared ancestry among the various Indigenous communities of California.
Historical Overview
The history of the Pit River Tribe is a complex narrative marked by both resilience and profound challenges. Unlike many other tribes, the Pit River people never signed a treaty with the United States or the State of California. Their land was taken without legal consent.
In the early 1800s, the estimated population of the Achumawi was around three thousand, while the Atsugewi numbered around nine hundred. These neighboring tribes often intermarried, fostering close relationships and shared cultural practices.
The arrival of American fur trappers in 1827 brought with it devastating consequences. A malaria epidemic decimated the Native population, weakening their ability to resist further encroachment on their lands. The Mexican cession of California to the United States in 1848 further exacerbated the situation, as hundreds of settlers and gold seekers flooded into the region, leading to hostile relations and violent conflicts.
The latter half of the 19th century witnessed a series of massacres and atrocities against the Pit River Tribe. The tribe faced systematic violence, displacement, and cultural suppression. Children were stolen and forced into white families, while traditional languages and customs were outlawed. These traumatic events had a lasting impact on the tribe’s identity and cultural continuity.
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the Pit River Tribe actively participated in the national movement to reclaim ancestral lands. Inspired by the occupation of Alcatraz Island, tribal members engaged in occupations of Pacific Gas and Electric property near Big Bend and U.S. Forest Service land near Burney. These acts of resistance, while met with force by authorities, demonstrated the tribe’s unwavering commitment to their land rights and cultural heritage.
Contemporary Life
Today, the Pit River Tribe continues to strive for self-determination and cultural preservation. The tribe owns trust lands in Lake County, California, Lassen, Mendocino, Modoc, and Shasta Counties. They also control six rancherias, providing housing and community services to tribal members. In 1990, when the two groups had combined as the Pit River Indians, 1,753 people identified themselves as Pit River Indians. The 2000 census showed 1,765 Pit River Indians.
The Pit River Tribe operates a small casino outside Burney, which provides revenue for tribal programs and services. The tribe remains committed to preserving its cultural heritage, promoting the well-being of its members, and asserting its sovereignty as a federally recognized tribe.
The Enduring Legacy
The story of the Pit River Tribe is one of resilience, cultural strength, and unwavering determination. Despite facing historical injustices, displacement, and cultural suppression, the tribe has persevered, maintaining its unique identity and striving for self-determination. Through language revitalization efforts, cultural preservation programs, and active participation in contemporary society, the Pit River Tribe continues to shape its own future while honoring its rich ancestral heritage. The Pit River Tribe serves as an inspiration to all who seek to preserve their cultural identity and fight for justice and self-determination.