The Ely Shoshone Tribal Lands, a vital part of the Ely Shoshone Tribe’s identity and heritage, are situated in White Pine County, Nevada. Specifically, these lands are strategically positioned on the southwest and southeast sides of the city of Ely, carved into three distinct and separate locations. This distribution reflects a history of acquisition and designation, playing a crucial role in the Tribe’s self-governance and cultural preservation. This article will explore the establishment, location, acreage, government structure, jurisdiction, and contact information related to the Ely Shoshone Tribal Lands.
Establishment and Historical Context
The foundation of the Ely Shoshone Tribal Lands is rooted in the early 20th century, with significant milestones marking its formation. The initial acquisition occurred on September 28, 1931. This purchase, amounting to 9.945 acres, was authorized under the Act of June 27, 1930 (46 Stat. 820). Of this original acreage, a small fraction, specifically 0.37 acres, was already under federal ownership.
This initial acquisition was a critical step towards establishing a land base for the Ely Shoshone Tribe. It represented a formal recognition of their presence and a commitment to providing them with a space for community and self-determination.
Later, in 1977, a significant expansion of the tribal lands occurred through legislative action. This resulted in the addition of 90 acres, further solidifying the land base and providing the Tribe with greater opportunities for development and resource management. This expansion demonstrates the ongoing efforts to support the Ely Shoshone Tribe and acknowledge their rights to land and self-governance.
Geographic Location and Significance
The location of the Ely Shoshone Tribal Lands is intrinsically linked to the city of Ely, Nevada, and the broader White Pine County. Situated on the southwest and southeast sides of the city, the three separate locations create a mosaic of tribal presence within the surrounding landscape.
Ely itself is a small city with a rich history, having evolved from a stagecoach station to a bustling mining town. The presence of the Ely Shoshone Tribe within this context adds a significant layer to the region’s cultural tapestry. The proximity of the tribal lands to the city offers opportunities for interaction, economic development, and cultural exchange.
White Pine County, characterized by its vast open spaces, mountain ranges, and arid climate, provides a unique backdrop for the tribal lands. The natural resources and ecological features of the county are essential to the Tribe’s traditional way of life and economic sustainability.
Acreage and Land Use
The total acreage of the Ely Shoshone Tribal Lands comprises several components:
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99.95 acres of Tribal Land: This constitutes the core of the tribal land base, under the direct control and management of the Ely Shoshone Tribe. This land is used for various purposes, including housing, community facilities, economic enterprises, and cultural preservation.
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0.37 acres of Federal Land: As mentioned earlier, a small portion of the original land acquisition was already under federal ownership. This land may be subject to specific regulations or agreements between the Tribe and the federal government.
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11 acres of Trust Lease – White Pine County: This acreage is subject to a trust lease agreement with White Pine County. This arrangement may involve specific terms and conditions regarding land use, resource management, and potential revenue sharing.
The diverse land uses within the tribal lands reflect the multifaceted needs and aspirations of the Ely Shoshone Tribe. These uses may include residential areas, government buildings, cultural centers, agricultural plots, and areas designated for natural resource conservation.
Government and Organizational Structure
The Ely Shoshone Tribe operates under a well-defined government structure, established and guided by key legislation and constitutional principles.
The Tribe is organized under the Indian Reorganization Act of June 18, 1934 (48 Stat. 984), as amended. This landmark legislation played a crucial role in promoting tribal self-governance and economic development. It provided a framework for tribes to adopt constitutions and bylaws, manage their resources, and engage in meaningful consultation with the federal government.
The Constitution and By-Laws of the Ely Shoshone Tribe were approved on April 8, 1966. This document serves as the foundation of the Tribe’s government, outlining its structure, powers, and responsibilities. It also defines the rights and responsibilities of tribal members and establishes procedures for decision-making and dispute resolution.
The government structure of the Ely Shoshone Tribe typically includes a Tribal Council or similar governing body, elected by tribal members. This body is responsible for enacting laws, managing tribal assets, overseeing programs and services, and representing the Tribe in interactions with external entities.
B.I.A. Agency and Federal Jurisdiction
The Ely Shoshone Tribe maintains a relationship with the Bureau of Indian Affairs (B.I.A.), a federal agency within the Department of the Interior. The Eastern Nevada Agency, located in Elko, Nevada, serves as the B.I.A.’s point of contact for the Ely Shoshone Tribe.
The B.I.A. provides a range of services and support to tribal governments, including funding for programs, technical assistance, and oversight of trust resources. The Eastern Nevada Agency plays a role in administering these services and ensuring compliance with federal laws and regulations. The phone number for the Eastern Nevada Agency is (702) 738-5165.
The jurisdiction over the Ely Shoshone Tribal Lands is primarily federal. This means that the federal government has ultimate authority over matters affecting the Tribe and its lands, subject to specific treaties, laws, and court decisions. However, the Ely Shoshone Tribe also exercises significant self-governance powers, allowing them to manage their internal affairs and make decisions that affect their community.
Contact Information
For those seeking to contact the Ely Shoshone Tribe, the following information is provided:
Ely Shoshone Tribe
16 Shoshone Circle
Ely, Nevada 89301
Telephone: (702) 289-3013
Fax: (702) 289-3156
This contact information can be used to reach the tribal government for inquiries related to tribal programs, services, cultural events, or other matters of interest.