The Elem Indian Colony of Pomo Indians of the Sulphur Bank Rancheria stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Southeastern Pomo people. This federally recognized tribal government represents the sole surviving Southeastern Pomo tribe, a poignant reminder of a once-vast and interconnected nation. The Elem Indian Colony is part of a larger group of Pomo people who historically thrived throughout Northern California. This article delves into the history, culture, and present-day circumstances of the Elem Indian Colony of Pomo Indians, offering insights into their traditions, challenges, and unwavering commitment to preserving their heritage.
A Glimpse into the Past: The Southeastern Pomo Nation
The Southeastern Pomo tribes of Lake County, California, were far from isolated entities. They formed a united, sovereign nation deeply rooted in the region’s abundant natural resources. Fishing and gathering were central to their way of life, sustaining their communities and shaping their cultural practices. The nation comprised four primary villages: Elem, Cigom, Koi, and Komdot. These villages, each with its unique identity and traditions, contributed to the strength and resilience of the Southeastern Pomo as a whole.
Their traditional territory encompassed approximately 80,000 acres surrounding what is now known as Clear Lake, California. This area provided not only sustenance but also spiritual and cultural significance. Their reach extended over an additional two million acres around the lake and along the Pacific Coast, demonstrating their mastery of the land and their ability to thrive in diverse environments.
The name "Pomo" itself offers a glimpse into their connection to the land. Derived from Northern Pomo words, it translates to "those who live at red earth hole," a likely reference to the rich, red soil found in their traditional territory. This name serves as a constant reminder of their deep connection to the land and its resources.
Population Dynamics: From Abundance to Scarcity
Historical accounts reveal a stark contrast between the Pomo population before and after European contact. In 1770, the first census recorded approximately 8,000 Pomo people collectively. However, estimates suggest that the pre-contact population was significantly higher, ranging from 10,000 to 18,000. The arrival of European settlers in the 1800s brought disease, displacement, and violence, leading to a drastic decline in the Pomo population. By 1851, their numbers had dwindled to around 4,000, and just thirty years later, only 1,450 remained.
Today, the collective Pomo population numbers just over 4,000. Of these, approximately 250 belong to the Elem Pomo tribe, with around 80 members residing on their reservation. This small number underscores the challenges they face in preserving their culture and traditions in the face of historical trauma and ongoing adversity.
Language: A Vanishing Treasure
The Pomo language family is diverse, consisting of four distinct branches: western, eastern, southern, and northern Pomo. Each branch further divides into seven unique dialects, each spoken by a specific Pomo tribe. While the Pomo tribes share linguistic roots, they maintain their individual identities and lack a formal political alliance.
The Southeastern Pomo dialect, a linguistic treasure dating back 8,000 years, was once spoken by a thriving community along the shores of Clear Lake. Passed down orally through generations, it was never written, making its preservation all the more challenging. Tragically, this ancient dialect has nearly vanished. As of 2007, only one fluent speaker remained, highlighting the urgent need for language revitalization efforts.
Culture and Traditions: A Tapestry of Skill and Spirituality
The Pomo people were renowned for their artistic skills and their deep spiritual connection to the natural world. Their artistry was evident in the creation of various items, including baskets, fish nets, tule mats, and tools made from stone, wood, and bone. Feathers and beads, often incorporated into their designs, added beauty and cultural significance to their creations.
Pomo baskets, in particular, were recognized for their exceptional quality. Both men and women participated in basket making, a testament to its importance in their culture. They were particularly skilled at weaving watertight baskets from bullrush (tule or cattails) and willow strands, adorned with feathers and beads made from shells. This intricate process, requiring the use of teeth to manipulate the fibers, has become increasingly difficult due to mercury contamination in the water where these materials grow.
Beyond their artistic skills, the Pomo people held a deep spiritual connection to the land and its creatures. Their myths centered around Kuksu or Gukso, a healer spirit, as well as spirits representing the six cardinal directions and the Coyote spirit, their central deity. Their religious practices revolved around shamanism, with the Coyote spirit playing a prominent role.
The Kuksu cult, a secret religious society, involved members impersonating gods to gain supernatural power. These members conducted ceremonies during the colder months to ensure an abundance of wild plant food the following summer. Dances, often related to healing, community well-being, and fertility, took place in special earth-covered dance houses. These ceremonies marked the initiation of young boys into shamanistic, ritual, and other professional roles, solidifying their place within the community.
Challenges and Resilience: The Modern-Day Elem Pomo
The Elem Indian Colony of Pomo Indians of the Sulphur Bank Rancheria faces significant challenges in the 21st century. Having lost control over vast ancestral lands, their language, and many cultural traditions, they strive to maintain their identity and way of life. The Bureau of Indian Affairs identifies the Elem Indian Colony as residing on land surrounded by a Superfund site, the Sulphur Bank Rancheria, a consequence of historical mining activities.
The mercury contamination in Clear Lake poses a severe health risk, preventing them from consuming fish from the lake. They rely on bottled water despite the abundance of water in the region. Tragically, many members of the tribe living on the reservation suffer from cancer and other diseases caused by exposure to toxic contaminants.
Despite these challenges, the Elem Indian Colony remains resilient. They are committed to preserving their cultural heritage, revitalizing their language, and advocating for environmental justice. They seek to restore their connection to the land and ensure a healthy future for their people.
Contact Information:
- Address: 13300 E Highway 20 Suite B, P. O. Box 989, Clearlake Oaks, CA 95423
- Phone: 707-998-2292
- Fax: 707-998-2993
The Elem Indian Colony of Pomo Indians of the Sulphur Bank Rancheria stands as a testament to the strength and perseverance of the Pomo people. Their story is one of cultural richness, historical trauma, and unwavering determination to maintain their identity in the face of adversity. By understanding their past and supporting their present-day efforts, we can help ensure a brighter future for the Elem Indian Colony and all Pomo people.