The Burns Paiute Tribe, a federally recognized sovereign nation, is situated in the high desert country north of Burns, Oregon, within the boundaries of Harney County. The tribe’s origins are deeply rooted in the history of the region, with its present-day members primarily descended from the "Wadatika" band of Northern Paiute Indians. These resourceful people traditionally roamed the vast landscapes of central and southern Oregon, carving out a life intricately connected to the land and its resources.
A People of the Great Basin: Traditional Territory and Origins
The Wadatika, meaning "Wada Seed Eaters," derived their name from the abundance of wada seeds they harvested near the shores of Malheur Lake. This vital resource, along with a deep understanding of the local flora and fauna, sustained them for generations. The ancestral territory of the Wadatika encompassed an expansive area, stretching approximately 52,500 square miles. It extended from the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountain Range in central Oregon to the Payette Valley, located north of Boise, Idaho. Their domain also included the southern reaches of the Blue Mountains near the headwaters of the Powder River, north of John Day, reaching southward to the arid expanse south of Steens Mountain.
Archaeological evidence suggests that the ancestors of the Burns Paiute Tribe inhabited the northern Great Basin as far back as nine thousand years ago. During this era, the region was characterized by a network of large lakes, a stark contrast to the semi-arid desert that exists today. These early inhabitants found shelter in caves near the lake shores, leaving behind traces of their existence that continue to inform our understanding of their history.
The Paiute people, also known as Numu, meaning "the People" or "original people," are part of the larger Paiute confederacy. This wider group encompasses various bands and tribes throughout the Great Basin region, each with their own distinct identity and cultural nuances.
Nomenclature: Tracing the Threads of Identity
The term "Paiute" itself is generally understood to mean "true Ute" or "water Ute," reflecting their connection to the Ute people and their reliance on water resources in the arid landscape. Throughout history, the Paiute peoples have been known by various names. Early Euro-American settlers often referred to them as "Diggers," a term likely derived from their practice of digging for roots, a crucial part of their diet. However, this term is now considered derogatory and should be avoided. They were also historically called Snakes and Bannocks by whites and were even confused with Northern Shoshone who shared many cultural and linguistic traits, as well as overlapping traditional territories.
The official tribal name is Burns Paiute Tribe, formerly known as the Burns Paiute Tribe of the Burns Paiute Indian Colony of Oregon. The traditional name, Paite Wadatika Ma-Ni-Pu-Neen, directly links the tribe to their Wadatika heritage and their connection to the land.
Governance and Community: The Burns Paiute Today
The Burns Paiute Tribe operates under a constitution and bylaws, originally adopted in 1968 and revised in 1988. These documents outline the objectives, membership criteria, powers of the General Council, and the bill of rights for the tribe. The governing body is the Tribal Council, comprised of seven members, including executive officers (Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Sargent-at-Arms, and Secretary). Each member of the Tribal Council is nominated and elected to a three-year term by the General Council, which consists of all voting members of the tribe (those 18 years or older).
The Burns Paiute Indian Colony, also known as the Burns Paiute Reservation, is located north of Burns, Oregon, in Harney County. The land area encompasses 11,944 acres, serving as the heart of the tribal community.
As of 2008, the registered population of the Burns Paiute Tribe was 341, with approximately 35.5% of tribal members residing on the reservation. Tribal enrollment requirements mandate that individuals must be a lineal descendant of an ancestor on the 1940 Burns Paiute Roll and possess a blood quantum of at least 1/8th Paiute.
Language and Culture: Preserving a Rich Heritage
The Northern Paiute language, also known as Numu and Paviotso or Bannock, is the dialect spoken by the Burns Paiute. This language belongs to the Numic branch of the Uto-Aztecan language family. While the number of fluent speakers has fluctuated over time, efforts are underway to preserve and revitalize this vital aspect of their cultural heritage. In 1994, the tribe had around 500 fluent speakers. Ethnologue reported 1,631 speakers in 1999. The language dialect is closely related to the Mono language.
Traditional arts and crafts, deeply intertwined with their connection to the land, continue to be practiced within the community. The Great Basin cultures are renowned for their intricate basketry, a testament to their skill and resourcefulness. Beadwork and drum-making are also significant cultural expressions, reflecting the tribe’s artistic traditions.
Historically, the ancestors of the Burns Paiute Tribe utilized the fibers of tule plants, willow, Indian hemp, and sagebrush bark to create woven sandals, coiled and twined baskets, and rope. These materials were also used to construct duck decoys, fish nets, and traps for small game, showcasing their ingenuity in utilizing available resources. Traditional clothing included skin breechcloths or double-aprons made of skin or vegetable fiber, animal-skin moccasins or woven yucca or sagebrush bark sandals. Winter attire consisted of robes made of rabbit fur strips or skin capes.
Subsistence and Economy: Adapting to Change
The Paiute were traditionally a hunter-gatherer society, adapting their movements to the seasonal migrations of game and the plant harvest seasons. Their diet was diverse, encompassing fish, birds, deer, small animals, plants, and seeds. Pine nuts and acorns were particularly important staple foods, ground into flour or made into mush.
Today, the Burns Paiute Tribe is engaged in economic development initiatives to support their community. While the Old Camp Casino has been closed, other ventures, such as the Sa-Wa-Be Restaurant and an RV park, contribute to the local economy. Tribal members continue to practice traditional hunting and gathering, harvesting roots, berries, and game. They also gather willow and tule for making baskets and cradleboards.
Spirituality and Beliefs: Connecting to the Sacred
The original Paiute religion centered on the belief that the earth was created by the sun and Coyote, a supernatural figure. Their supernatural beings were often totemic animals and natural objects. They would pray for rain or for a good hunt and prayed daily to the Sun for a good day.
The Ghost Dance religion, founded by Northern Paiute religious leaders such as Tavibo and his son Wovoka, played a significant role in Paiute history. This pan-Indian movement, which sought to restore traditional ways of life and bring about a world free of suffering, had a profound impact on indigenous communities throughout the West. Wovoka, also known as Jack Wilson, was a Northern Paiute religious leader and founder of the Ghost Dance movement. Wovoka means “wood cutter” in the Northern Paiute language.
Historical Challenges and Resilience: A Story of Survival
The history of the Burns Paiute Tribe is marked by periods of conflict and hardship. Relations with the Washoe people were often strained, and the Pah Ute War of 1860, sparked by the mistreatment of Paiute women, led to further violence. As Euro-American settlement expanded, the Paiute people faced displacement, disease, and cultural disruption. Epidemics of smallpox, cholera, and other diseases swept through Paiute communities in the 1830s and 1840s.
Despite these challenges, the Burns Paiute Tribe has demonstrated remarkable resilience, preserving their cultural heritage and working towards a brighter future for their community. Their story is a testament to the enduring strength and spirit of the Paiute people.
This overview of the Burns Paiute Tribe provides a glimpse into their rich history, vibrant culture, and ongoing efforts to thrive in the 21st century. By understanding their past, we can better appreciate their present and support their future.