The Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian Community of the Colusa Rancheria stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of the Wintun people in central California. This federally recognized tribe maintains a vibrant presence in Colusa County, California, where their history is deeply intertwined with the land and its resources. Established in 1907, the Colusa Rancheria, also known as the Cachildehe Rancheria, serves as the heart of the community and a tangible link to their ancestral heritage. This article explores the history, culture, governance, and contemporary life of the Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian Community of the Colusa Rancheria, offering insight into their journey from ancient traditions to modern self-determination.
Location and Contact Information
The administrative offices of the Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian Community of the Colusa Rancheria are located at 3730 Highway 45, Colusa, CA 95932. For those seeking to connect with the tribe, they can be reached by phone at 1.530.458.8231 and by fax at 1.530.458.4186. Further information and resources can be found on their official website: http://www.colusa-nsn.gov/.
Recognition and Nomenclature
The tribe holds the distinction of being a Federally Recognized Tribe, a status that acknowledges their sovereign rights and government-to-government relationship with the United States. While the traditional name and its precise meaning are not readily available in the provided source material, the tribe is commonly referred to as the Colusa Indian Community, a designation that reflects their strong communal bonds and shared identity. Alternate names include Cachildehe Rancheria and Colusa Rancheria, highlighting the significance of their land base to their cultural and political existence.
Geographical Context and Affiliation
The Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian Community of the Colusa Rancheria is situated within the California cultural region, a diverse landscape shaped by varying climates and ecosystems. Today, their presence is concentrated in California. Historically, the tribe’s traditional territory encompassed a broader area, though the specific boundaries are not detailed in the provided text. They are part of the Wintun confederacy, a grouping of related tribes who share linguistic and cultural connections.
Land Base and Demographics
The Colusa Rancheria, the tribe’s reservation, comprises approximately 573 acres (2.32 km2) of land. The tribal headquarters are located in Colusa, California, placing them firmly within their ancestral homeland. The tribe operates within the Pacific Time Zone. In 2011, the registered population of the Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian Community of the Colusa Rancheria was 84, with 77 individuals residing on the Colusa Rancheria. Enrollment requirements are determined by the tribe, reflecting their inherent right to define their membership.
Governance and Political Structure
The Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian Community of the Colusa Rancheria operates under a constitution and bylaws ratified on November 23, 1941, by 45 original members. This foundational document provides the framework for their self-governance and outlines the structure of their government. The governing body is the Colusa Indian Community Council. The specific number of council members, dates of constitutional amendments, and number of executive officers are not provided in this article.
Language and Linguistic Heritage
The language of the Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian Community of the Colusa Rancheria belongs to the Penutian language family, specifically the Wintuan branch, and further classified as Southern Wintuan, and ultimately, Patwin (also known as Patween). Patwin itself is comprised of three dialects: River Patwin, Hill Patwin, and Southern Patwin. River Patwin was spoken along the Sacramento River in Colusa County, while Hill Patwin was spoken in the plains and foothills to the west. Southern Patwin became extinct shortly after contact with Europeans.
Linguistic studies suggest that the Wintuan languages may have diverged from a common tongue relatively recently, approximately 2,000 years ago. While the Wintuan family is generally considered part of the Penutian language phylum, some recent studies propose that the Wintuans entered California independently from Oregon around 1,500 years ago.
Tragically, all Wintuan languages are severely endangered. Wintu may have only a handful of speakers remaining, and Nomlaki has few to none. In 1997, only one speaker of the Hill Patwin dialect remained. Southern Patwin, once spoken by the Suisun, disappeared soon after European contact.
The Colusa Indian Community Council has taken proactive steps to preserve their linguistic heritage, publishing a language book and developing language CDs and DVDs.
Economic Development and Resources
The Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian Community of the Colusa Rancheria has made significant strides in economic development, primarily through the operation of the Colusa Casino Resort. The resort includes Seasons Buffet, Wintun Steakhouse, and Jack’s Lounge.
Originally established as Colusa Bingo in 1986, the facility evolved into a high-stakes bingo hall with 1,200 seats. Slot machines were introduced in 1992. A major expansion in 2004 added a hotel, expanded casino floor space for slot machines and table games, and additional restaurant space.
The success of the Colusa Casino Resort has provided the tribe with resources to invest in various initiatives, including the Colusa Indian Health Center, Wellness Center, and Hand-in-Hand daycare facility, all of which are open to the public.
The tribe also engages in agricultural activities, owning over 200 acres and farming an additional 4,000 acres, primarily for rice cultivation. Their economic portfolio includes a hunt club business, Outdoor Adventures, offering big game, waterfowl, and sport fishing excursions.
Cultural and Spiritual Practices
Mount Shasta holds profound spiritual significance for the Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian Community of the Colusa Rancheria. A Wintun elder has shared insights into the Inipi (sweat lodge), Bear Medicine Lodge, and the importance of preserving and passing on tribal traditions.
A Legacy of Resilience
The story of the Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian Community of the Colusa Rancheria is a powerful narrative of perseverance and adaptation. From their ancestral roots to their contemporary endeavors, they have maintained their cultural identity while navigating the complexities of the modern world. Their commitment to language preservation, economic self-sufficiency, and community well-being reflects their dedication to a thriving future for generations to come.