The Cher-O-Creek Intra Tribal Indians, a community with deep roots in the southeastern United States, represent a unique blend of Native American heritage. Specifically, their bloodlines are primarily composed of individuals with ancestry from two of the Five Civilized Tribes: the Creek and Cherokee. This intermingling of lineages, particularly within the state of Alabama, defines the distinct identity of the Cher-O-Creek. Many members proudly trace their heritage to both Creek and Cherokee ancestors, a testament to the complex history and cultural exchange that has shaped their community.
A Legacy Woven from Two Nations
To understand the significance of the Cher-O-Creek Intra Tribal Indians, it’s crucial to appreciate the individual histories of the Creek and Cherokee nations. Both were powerful and influential tribes in the Southeast, each with its own distinct language, social structure, and traditions.
The Creek Confederacy, also known as the Muscogee, was a large and diverse group of tribes inhabiting present-day Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina. They were known for their sophisticated agricultural practices, complex social hierarchy, and vibrant ceremonial life. The Cherokee, on the other hand, primarily resided in the southern Appalachian Mountains, encompassing parts of present-day North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama. They developed a unique written language, a testament to their intellectual prowess, and maintained a strong sense of cultural identity.
The convergence of these two distinct cultures within the Cher-O-Creek Intra Tribal Indians creates a rich tapestry of traditions and beliefs, reflecting the shared history and intertwined destinies of the Creek and Cherokee people.
Historical Context: Survival and Resilience
The 19th century brought immense challenges to the Native American tribes of the Southeast. The relentless westward expansion of the United States, fueled by a desire for land and resources, led to the forced removal of many tribes from their ancestral homelands. The Indian Removal Act of 1830, a dark chapter in American history, authorized the government to forcibly relocate tribes west of the Mississippi River.
The Trail of Tears, the forced march of the Cherokee Nation to present-day Oklahoma, remains a symbol of the injustice and suffering inflicted upon Native Americans during this period. Similarly, the Creek Nation faced displacement and hardship as they were forcibly removed from their lands.
However, not all members of these tribes were removed. Some individuals and families managed to evade capture and deportation, seeking refuge in the remote woodlands and mountains of the Southeast. Others integrated into white society through marriage or by adopting European customs. Some found refuge amongst the Freedmen communities, concealing their Native American identity under the guise of being "Black Dutch" or "Black Irish," a strategy employed to avoid persecution and maintain a semblance of safety.
This period of upheaval and forced assimilation had a profound impact on the survival of Native American cultures. Many were forced to suppress their language, customs, and traditions to avoid detection and protect their children. The fear of exposure led to a culture of secrecy, where families were hesitant to share their true heritage with outsiders.
The Cher-O-Creek Intra Tribal Indians are descendants of those resilient individuals who managed to survive the Removal era, preserving their Native American bloodlines and cultural memory despite the immense pressures to assimilate. Their existence is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Creek and Cherokee people and their determination to maintain their identity in the face of adversity.
Reclaiming Heritage: A Renewed Sense of Pride
As societal attitudes towards Native Americans began to shift, and with increased tolerance and acceptance within local communities, descendants of those who had hidden their heritage began to reconnect with their roots. This process of reclaiming their identity involved sharing stories, piecing together fragmented memories, and reviving forgotten traditions.
Elders played a crucial role in this cultural revival, serving as living repositories of knowledge and wisdom. They recalled stories, songs, dances, and traditional practices that had been passed down through generations, providing a vital link to the past. Gatherings and community meetings became spaces for sharing these memories, fostering a sense of belonging, and rebuilding cultural pride.
The resurgence of interest in Native American heritage has led to a renewed sense of identity and purpose within the Cher-O-Creek Intra Tribal Indians community. Members are actively engaged in preserving their cultural traditions, educating future generations about their history, and advocating for the rights and recognition of their tribe.
Contemporary Identity and Recognition
Today, the Cher-O-Creek Intra Tribal Indians are recognized as a state-recognized tribe in Alabama. This recognition acknowledges their distinct cultural heritage and provides them with certain rights and privileges. The tribe maintains a headquarters in Dothan, Alabama, and actively works to promote the well-being of its members and the preservation of its cultural heritage.
Address: P.O. Box 36302, Dothan, AL 36302-0717
Phone: (334) 712-1795
The tribe’s ongoing efforts to document its history, revitalize its language, and promote its cultural traditions are essential for ensuring the survival of the Cher-O-Creek Intra Tribal Indians identity for generations to come.
Cultural Practices and Traditions
Prior to the Removal, the Creek and Cherokee people enjoyed a rich cultural life. They lived in well-constructed homes, adorned themselves with fine clothing and jewelry, and valued education. Children were taught to respect their elders, practice good behavior, and care for the environment. The tribe provided support for widows, the elderly, orphans, and the disabled, demonstrating a strong sense of community responsibility.
Agriculture and hunting were central to their way of life. They cultivated fertile land along rivers and streams, producing abundant crops that served as a source of sustenance and economic prosperity. Their deep connection to the land and their respect for nature were integral to their spiritual beliefs.
While the forced removal and assimilation policies disrupted many of these traditional practices, the Cher-O-Creek Intra Tribal Indians are working to revive and preserve them. This includes efforts to learn and teach the Creek and Cherokee languages, practice traditional arts and crafts, and celebrate cultural ceremonies and dances.
Challenges and Future Directions
Despite their progress in reclaiming their heritage and gaining recognition, the Cher-O-Creek Intra Tribal Indians continue to face challenges. These include limited resources, the ongoing effects of historical trauma, and the need to educate the broader public about their unique history and culture.
Looking to the future, the tribe is committed to strengthening its cultural preservation efforts, promoting economic development within its community, and advocating for the rights and well-being of its members. By working together and drawing upon the strength and resilience of their ancestors, the Cher-O-Creek Intra Tribal Indians are determined to ensure a vibrant and sustainable future for their tribe.
The story of the Cher-O-Creek Intra Tribal Indians is a powerful reminder of the enduring strength and resilience of Native American people. It is a story of survival, adaptation, and the unwavering determination to preserve cultural identity in the face of adversity. Their journey serves as an inspiration to all who seek to understand and appreciate the rich diversity of Native American cultures.