The Comanche Nation, a federally recognized tribe headquartered in Lawton, Oklahoma, represents a vibrant and historically significant group of people with deep roots in the American Southwest. Their story is one of adaptation, resilience, and a powerful connection to the land. Originally part of the Shoshone peoples, the Comanches emerged as a distinct and formidable force on the Great Plains, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the region.
Official Identity and Contact Information
Formally recognized as the Comanche Nation, the tribal government operates from the Comanche Nation Complex in Lawton, Oklahoma. This complex serves as the central hub for tribal administration, services, and cultural preservation efforts. Individuals seeking information about the Comanche Nation can reach the tribal headquarters through the following channels:
- Address: The Comanche Nation Complex, 584 NW Bingo Rd., Lawton, OK 73507
- Phone: (877) 492 4988
- Fax: (580) 492 3796
- Email: info@comanchenation.com
- Official Website: www.comanchenation.com
Recognition and Nomenclature
The Comanche Nation holds the status of a Federally Recognized tribe, acknowledging their sovereignty and government-to-government relationship with the United States. Their traditional name, Numunu, carries deep cultural significance. The term "Comanche" itself originates from the Ute word kɨmantsi, which translates to "anyone who wants to fight me all the time," a testament to their reputation as skilled warriors and defenders of their territory. Historically, they were also known as Padouca.
Geographic Origins and Territorial Expansion
The Comanches’ story begins with their separation from the Shoshone people along the upper Platte River in Wyoming around 1700. This split marked the beginning of their unique cultural and historical trajectory. As they migrated southward, they established themselves on the southern Great Plains, claiming a vast territory known as Comancheria.
Comancheria encompassed a significant portion of the present-day American Southwest, including eastern New Mexico, southeastern Colorado, southwestern Kansas, western Oklahoma, and most of northwest Texas. This expansive domain endured until the mid-nineteenth century, representing the height of Comanche power and influence. Today, the Comanche Nation is primarily located in Oklahoma.
Tribal Affiliations and Treaties
The Comanches formed their own distinct confederacy. Their interactions with the United States government are documented in treaties, such as the "Treaty With The Comanche, Aionai, Anadarko, Caddo, Etc., 1846," which reflects the complex relationship between the tribe and the expanding nation.
Population and Enrollment
At the peak of their power in the late 18th century, the Comanche population is estimated to have been between 40,000 and 45,000. Today, the Comanche Nation boasts a registered membership of 15,191 individuals, with approximately 7,763 residing within the tribal jurisdictional area around Lawton, Fort Sill, and surrounding areas of southwest Oklahoma. Tribal enrollment requires a blood quantum of 1/8, equivalent to one great-grandparent.
Governance and Language
The Comanche Nation operates under a defined governmental structure. The Comanche language belongs to the Uto-Aztecan language family, specifically the Shoshonean and Numic branches. It is closely related to Shoshone, reflecting their shared ancestry. Unfortunately, the number of fluent Comanche speakers has dwindled, with only about 1% of the population actively speaking the language today.
Historical Overview
The Comanches emerged as a distinct group in the early 18th century, separating from the Shoshone people. Their migration southward led them to the southern Great Plains, where they established a vast territory and developed a unique equestrian culture. By 1700, they had reached present-day New Mexico and the Texas Panhandle, displacing the Lipan Apache people.
The Comanches’ population experienced significant growth due to the abundance of buffalo, the influx of Shoshone migrants, and the adoption of captives from rival groups. They were organized into bands, each with its own leader and autonomy. Notable bands included the Yamparikas, Jupes, Kotsotekas, and Penatekas.
Cultural Practices and Traditions
The Comanches were renowned for their horsemanship and their reliance on the buffalo. They were skilled hunters, warriors, and traders, and their culture was deeply intertwined with the natural environment.
- Horses: The Comanches acquired horses around 1680 and quickly became expert riders and breeders. They are considered by many to be the finest light cavalry in the world.
- Subsistence: Buffalo was their primary food source, and they utilized every part of the animal for clothing, shelter, and tools.
- Housing: They lived in traditional Plains hide tipis.
- Social Organization: They were organized as bands, each having its own leader. Groups and families could move between bands.
Alliances and Conflicts
The Comanches were traditionally allied with the Kiowa and Apache tribes. Their traditional enemies included the Ute. They were known for taking captives during warfare and trading them as slaves to Spanish and later Mexican settlers. They also engaged in extensive raiding for horses and livestock, which often led to conflicts with other tribes and settlers.
Modern-Day Events and Tourism
The Comanche Nation actively promotes its culture and heritage through various events and tourism initiatives.
- Comanche Nation Homecoming Powwow: Held annually in Walters, Oklahoma, in mid-July, this is the tribe’s biggest event of the year.
- Comanche Nation Fair: Held every September.
- Comanche Little Ponies Dances: Held twice a year, once over New Year’s and once in May.
Economic Activities
Today, the Comanche Nation operates its own housing authority, issues tribal vehicle tags, and manages a Department of Higher Education that provides scholarships and financial aid to tribal members. They also operate the Comanche Nation College in Lawton, Oklahoma. Their economic ventures include ten tribal smoke shops and four casinos: Comanche Nation Games in Lawton, Comanche Red River Casino in Devol, Comanche Spur Casino in Elgin, and Comanche Star Casino in Walters, Oklahoma.
Education and Media
The Comanche Nation is committed to education and cultural preservation. In 2002, they founded the Comanche Nation College, a two-year tribal college in Lawton.
Catastrophic Events and Resilience
The Comanches faced devastating smallpox epidemics in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, which significantly reduced their population. Despite these challenges, they persevered and maintained their cultural identity.
The Comanche Nation stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its people. Their history, culture, and resilience continue to inspire and shape the future of the tribe.