The Capitan Grande Band of Diegueno Mission Indians of California stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of the Kumeyaay people, who have inhabited the lands of present-day San Diego County for millennia. Federally recognized as a sovereign nation, the tribe is composed of two distinct bands: the Barona Group of Capitan Grande Band of Mission Indians of the Barona Reservation (commonly known as the Barona Band of Mission Indians) and the Viejas (Baron Long) Group of Capitan Grande Band of Mission Indians of the Viejas Reservation (known as the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay). These two bands, while sharing a common ancestry and historical experience, maintain their own governance and distinct community identities.
This article delves into the history, culture, governance, and contemporary life of the Capitan Grande Band of Diegueno Mission Indians of California, exploring the unique characteristics of both the Barona and Viejas bands while acknowledging their shared heritage.
Historical Overview: From Ancient Roots to the Mission Era
The ancestral lands of the Diegueno, or Kumeyaay, people encompass a vast territory stretching from the Pacific coast eastward into the mountains and deserts of Southern California and Baja California, Mexico. Archaeological evidence suggests human habitation in this region dating back at least 12,000 years, with some sites potentially reaching back 20,000 years. This deep connection to the land is fundamental to the Kumeyaay identity.
Prior to European contact, the Kumeyaay lived in autonomous villages, organized along clan lines known as Sh’mulq. These clans maintained intricate social, familial, spiritual, and militaristic alliances. In times of external threat, the clans would unite under a Kwachut G’tag to defend their territories and way of life. Their subsistence was based on a diverse range of resources, including hunting, gathering, and fishing, adapted to the varied ecological zones within their territory. Acorns served as a staple food, supplemented by seeds, berries, roots, deer, rabbits, and coastal resources.
The arrival of Spanish missionaries in the late 18th century dramatically altered the lives of the Kumeyaay. The establishment of Mission San Diego de Alcalá in 1769 marked the beginning of the mission era, a period characterized by forced conversion, displacement, and the disruption of traditional lifeways. While some Kumeyaay people resisted Spanish rule, others were compelled to reside at the missions, where they were subjected to labor and religious indoctrination. This period of colonization had a profound and lasting impact on the Kumeyaay people, resulting in the loss of land, cultural practices, and traditional social structures.
The Capitan Grande Story: Displacement and Resilience
The name "Capitan Grande" emerged in the mid-19th century, reflecting a specific chapter in the Kumeyaay’s struggle for survival. As the town of San Diego grew during the 1840s and 1850s, pressure increased on the Kumeyaay communities living in the Mission Valley area. Many were pushed eastward into the region now known as East County.
In 1853, a group of Kumeyaay established a village in a canyon along the upper San Diego River. This area became known as Capitan Grande, meaning "Great Captain" in Spanish. Colonel John Bankhead Magruder of the U.S. Army issued a federal permit allowing the Indians to inhabit the area, effectively warning the general public against disturbing them. From this point forward, these Kumeyaay people and their descendants became known as the "Capitan Grande group of Mission Indians." Today, descendents may identify as Kumeyaay, ‘Iipay, or Diegueno, reflecting family traditions.
However, the story of Capitan Grande took a tragic turn in the early 20th century. In the 1930s, the City of San Diego sought to construct a dam and reservoir in the Capitan Grande Valley to provide water for the growing city. Despite the community’s resistance, the federal government condemned the land, forcing the residents of Capitan Grande to relocate. This displacement was a devastating blow to the community, severing their connection to their ancestral lands and sacred sites.
The displaced families were divided and relocated to two new reservations: Barona and Viejas. This division led to the formation of the two distinct bands that comprise the Capitan Grande Band of Diegueno Mission Indians of California today.
The Barona Band of Mission Indians
The Barona Band of Mission Indians established their reservation in 1932, located in the mountain foothills of San Diego County, approximately 30 miles east of San Diego. The Barona Reservation encompasses 5,900 acres of flat and rocky terrain.
Today, the Barona Band is a thriving community with a strong commitment to self-governance and economic development. The Tribal Council, consisting of five members and executive officers (Chairman and Vice-Chairman), serves as the governing body of the Barona Band. Council members serve four-year terms and are responsible for conducting all tribal business, including planning and economic development initiatives. Decisions regarding land or other tribal resources are referred to the General Council, which includes all voting members of the tribe.
The Barona Band has achieved significant economic success through its gaming operations, including the Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino. This revenue has enabled the tribe to invest in essential services for its members, such as healthcare, education, and housing. The Barona Cultural Center & Museum showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of the Kumeyaay people, providing educational resources for both tribal members and the wider community. The Barona Indian Charter School offers K-8 education, emphasizing cultural preservation and academic excellence.
The Viejas Band of Kumeyaay
The Viejas Band of Kumeyaay, also known as the Baron Long Group, also trace their origins to the displaced residents of Capitan Grande. The Viejas Indian Reservation is another testament to the enduring spirit of the Kumeyaay people.
Similar to the Barona Band, the Viejas Band has achieved significant economic success through its gaming operations, including the Viejas Casino & Resort. This revenue has allowed the tribe to invest in a wide range of community programs and services, including healthcare, education, and housing.
Governance and Sovereignty
Both the Barona Band and the Viejas Band operate as sovereign nations, exercising their inherent right to self-governance. They maintain government-to-government relationships with the United States federal government and actively participate in regional and national tribal organizations. The tribes are committed to protecting their treaty rights, preserving their cultural heritage, and promoting the well-being of their members.
Cultural Preservation and Language Revitalization
The Capitan Grande Band of Diegueno Mission Indians of California, encompassing both Barona and Viejas, recognizes the importance of preserving and revitalizing their cultural heritage. The Kumeyaay language, classified as part of the Hokan language family, is a vital component of their cultural identity. Efforts are underway to document and teach the language to future generations. Cultural programs, ceremonies, and traditional arts are also actively promoted to ensure the continuity of Kumeyaay traditions.
Contemporary Challenges and Future Directions
Like many Native American tribes, the Capitan Grande Band of Diegueno Mission Indians of California faces ongoing challenges, including addressing issues related to healthcare, education, and economic development. They are also committed to protecting their environmental resources and ensuring the sustainability of their communities.
Looking to the future, the Barona and Viejas bands are focused on strengthening their self-governance, expanding their economic opportunities, and preserving their cultural heritage for future generations. They are actively involved in regional and national initiatives to advocate for tribal sovereignty and promote the well-being of Native American communities.
The Capitan Grande Band of Diegueno Mission Indians of California serves as a powerful example of the resilience and determination of the Kumeyaay people. Despite facing historical injustices and contemporary challenges, they have persevered, maintaining their cultural identity and building thriving communities for future generations. Their story is a testament to the enduring strength and spirit of Native American nations.