Nestled approximately 25 miles southwest of Santa Fe, New Mexico, lies the Pueblo of Cochiti, a vibrant community with a rich history stretching back several centuries. The people of Cochiti, known for their resilience and cultural preservation, have cultivated a relatively stable existence, allowing them to dedicate significant time and energy to the flourishing of their religion, arts, and crafts. This dedication has shaped the Pueblo into a unique cultural center within the broader Southwestern landscape.
A Name Echoing History
The name "Cochiti" itself is a window into the Pueblo’s past. Originating from the Keresan language, it underwent a transformation through Spanish transliteration. The term "pueblo," derived from the Spanish word for "village," carries a dual meaning. It signifies both a distinct architectural style prevalent among Southwest Indian communities – characterized by multi-story, apartment-like structures meticulously crafted from adobe – and the people who call these structures home. The Pueblo of Cochiti stands as a testament to both the physical and cultural dimensions of this term.
Location and Landscape
Geographically situated within the Southwest region of the United States, the Pueblo of Cochiti falls within the boundaries of the state of New Mexico. The Pueblo is part of the broader Puebloan cultural group, a collective of Native American tribes sharing similar cultural and linguistic traits.
The Pueblo de Cochiti reservation encompasses a substantial land area exceeding 50,000 acres. The tribal headquarters, vital for administrative and governmental functions, are located within this territory. The community operates within the Mountain Time Zone.
A Glimpse into the Past
Historical records indicate that around 1700, the Pueblo of Cochiti was home to approximately 500 individuals. By 1990, the registered population residing within the Pueblo had grown to 666, with an estimated equal number of Cochiti people living outside the Pueblo boundaries.
Governance and Leadership
The governing structure of the Pueblo of Cochiti is a fascinating blend of indigenous traditions and influences from Spanish colonial rule. Indigenous elements include the cacique, the Pueblo’s head, and the war captains. These figures hold close ties to the religious structures of the Pueblo, reflecting the theocratic nature of their government. The cacique is not simply a political leader; he is deeply intertwined with the spiritual well-being of the community.
Alongside these traditional roles, Spanish authorities introduced a parallel system of officials. These positions, appointed by the traditional leadership, primarily managed external affairs and interactions with the church. This group included the governor, lieutenant governor, and fiscales.
The All Indian Pueblo Council, dating back to 1598, has experienced a resurgence in the 20th century, providing a platform for inter-Pueblo collaboration and advocacy. While the Pueblo of Cochiti operates according to established traditions, the tribal council, following World War II, transitioned from consensus-based decision-making to majority rule.
Annually, the headmen of the three medicine societies, one of whom is the cacique, select key leaders from the two kiva groups. These selections include the war captain and his lieutenant, the governor and his lieutenant, and the fiscale and his lieutenant. This process ensures a continuous flow of leadership rooted in both spiritual and civic responsibilities.
Language: A Cultural Cornerstone
The Pueblo of Cochiti is associated with the Keresan language family, specifically the Eastern Keres branch, with the Cochiti dialect as its unique expression. Keresan is a cluster of dialects spoken among the seven Keres Pueblos in New Mexico. While the dialects of neighboring Keres pueblos are generally mutually intelligible, Keres itself is considered a language isolate, meaning it has no definitively proven genetic relationship to other known languages. Linguists have proposed connections to various language stocks, but none have achieved universal consensus.
Unfortunately, due to intermarriage and acculturation, the number of fluent Keresan speakers within the Pueblo of Cochiti has declined. Many Cochiti individuals were once trilingual, speaking Keresan, Spanish, and English. However, a growing number of Cochiti people reside outside the Pueblo, contributing to the loss of language, traditions, and cultural practices. Since the 1960s, children have attended day schools alongside children from nearby Latino communities, further impacting the community’s linguistic homogeneity. Today, most speakers are over 30 years old, underscoring the urgent need for language revitalization efforts.
Origins and Ancestry
The Pueblo people, including those of Cochiti, are believed to be descendants of the Anasazi, and potentially the Mogollon, and other ancient peoples. However, the precise origins of the Keresan-speaking peoples remain a topic of ongoing research and discussion.
Allies and Adversaries
While often portrayed as peaceful, the Pueblo people have a history marked by both alliances and conflicts. They engaged in warfare, most notably during the Pueblo Revolt of 1680 against Spanish rule. They also defended themselves against attacks from nomadic tribes like the Apache, Comanche, and Ute. At times, they served as auxiliary soldiers alongside Spanish and Mexican forces, primarily against raiding tribes and to protect trade caravans along the Santa Fe Trail.
Ceremonies and Modern Life
The Pueblo of Cochiti maintains a rich ceremonial life, with San Buenaventuras Day being the principal ceremony and major feast day. While katsina dances are typically private, the tribe generally welcomes the public to other ceremonies. However, photography, video recording, and sketching are generally discouraged in all the Pueblos out of respect for their spiritual practices.
Art and Cultural Expression
The artistic traditions of the Pueblo of Cochiti are diverse and deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. Pottery, baskets, drums, and ornaments crafted from shell and turquoise are prominent examples. Songs, dances, and dramas also play a significant role in their artistic expression. The 20th century witnessed a renaissance of traditional arts among many Pueblo communities, including Cochiti.
Daily Life: Past and Present
Historically, the Pueblo of Cochiti economy operated on socialist principles, with shared labor and equal distribution of resources. Agriculture formed the backbone of their subsistence, with corn, beans, and pumpkins being staple crops. They also cultivated sunflowers and tobacco. Hunting provided additional sustenance, with deer, mountain lion, bear, antelope, and rabbits being common game.
Traditional Cochiti dwellings consisted of two- to three-story, apartment-style buildings constructed from adobe bricks. These structures faced south and featured roofs made of beams, poles, brush, and plaster. Floors were typically made of wood plank or packed earth. The levels were interconnected by ladders, and entry was through the roof for defense. Pit houses, or kivas, served as ceremonial chambers and clubhouses.
Today, while some continue to farm, many Cochiti people work for wages in nearby cities. The tribe has also explored economic development opportunities, including tourism and business ventures. However, challenges such as unemployment persist.
Religion and Spirituality
Religion and life are deeply intertwined in the traditional Pueblo culture. Harmony with nature is a guiding principle. The sun represents the Creator, and sacred mountains in each direction, along with the sun above and the earth below, define and balance the Pueblo world.
Pueblo religious ceremonies often revolve around the weather and are intended to ensure adequate rainfall. The power of katsinas, sacred beings residing in mountains and other holy places, is evoked through ritual and dance.
The Pueblo of Cochiti contains two circular kivas, symbolizing the place of original emergence into this world. These kivas are associated with the Squash and Turquoise societies.
While many Cochiti people identify as Catholic, they have integrated elements of Catholicism with their traditional beliefs. Maintaining cultural identity remains a challenge, but strong roots and ancient traditions continue to endure.
A History of Resilience
The history of the Pueblo of Cochiti is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its people. From the Anasazi migrations to the Spanish colonization and the Pueblo Revolt, they have faced numerous challenges. The Pueblo of Cochiti has adapted and retained their cultural identity through it all. In the face of change, they have persevered, preserving their cultural heritage while navigating the complexities of the modern world.