The name Thlopthlocco Tribal Town carries a dual significance, representing both a federally recognized Native American tribe and a historical township deeply rooted in the traditions of the Muscogee (Creek) Indians. Originally located in what is now the state of Alabama, the story of Thlopthlocco Tribal Town is inextricably linked to the broader narrative of forced removal and cultural resilience that defines much of Native American history.
The Muscogee (Creek) people, a vibrant and organized society, once thrived across a vast territory in the southeastern United States. However, the relentless westward expansion of European settlers and the United States government led to a series of treaties and ultimately, forced removal. The majority of the Muscogee (Creek) were forcibly relocated to what is now the state of Oklahoma, a devastating chapter known as the Trail of Tears. Those who managed to evade removal and remained in Florida eventually became known as the Seminole Tribe, forging a separate but related identity.
Today, the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town is centered in Okemah, Oklahoma, and functions as a sovereign entity, preserving its cultural heritage and striving for the well-being of its members.
Identity and Nomenclature
The very name "Thlopthlocco" holds historical and cultural weight. Pronounced by English speakers as "Rop-ro-co," it translates to "Tall Cane" or "Big Reed." This name likely refers to the prominent presence of cane reeds in the landscape surrounding their original settlement. The tribe uses both the traditional name and its anglicized version interchangeably. While alternate names and spellings are not widely documented, the core identity remains firmly rooted in the name Thlopthlocco Tribal Town.
Location and Territory
Historically, the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town was situated within the Southeastern cultural region, specifically as a constituent part of the Muscogee (Creek) Confederacy. Their traditional territory encompassed areas within present-day Alabama and Georgia. Following the Removal Treaty of March 24, 1832, the tribe was forced to relocate westward to what is now Oklahoma.
Currently, the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town does not have a formally designated reservation in the traditional sense. However, in 1941, the Secretary of the Interior placed approximately 1,900 acres of land in trust for the tribe’s exclusive use and benefit. On a portion of this land, near the North Canadian River, tribal members constructed a council house from hand-hewn stone, a symbol of their community and resilience. The Dawes Commission of 1896, however, divided this land into allotments for individual households, reflecting the federal government’s policy of assimilation.
Today, the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town owns approximately 2,330 acres of land in Okfuskee and Hughes Counties, Oklahoma, consisting of both trust and fee simple lands. This includes 120 acres that house their tribal headquarters and the Golden Pony Casino, an important source of revenue for the tribe. The tribal headquarters are located in Okemah, Oklahoma, with branch offices in Clearview, Oklahoma. The tribe operates within the Central Time Zone.
Demographics and Enrollment
The population of the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town at the time of initial European contact is not precisely documented. However, the registered population today stands at approximately 845 members. Tribal enrollment requirements are based on matrilineal descent from a base enrollee of the 1890 Creek Census Roll or the 1895 Creek Payroll of the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town. Alternatively, if the mother does not have Creek blood, the father must be an enrolled member of the tribe. This emphasis on lineage underscores the importance of maintaining tribal identity and cultural continuity.
Governance and Structure
The Thlopthlocco Tribal Town operates under a constitution and bylaws ratified in 1938, following the provisions of the Oklahoma Indian Welfare Act of 1936. The tribe also ratified its federal charter of incorporation in 1939. The governing body is the Business Committee, and a five-person advisory council is appointed by the five elected officials. The executive officers consist of the Town King (Mekko), two Warriors, a Secretary, and a Treasurer, reflecting a blend of traditional leadership roles and modern governance structures.
Language and Cultural Heritage
The language of the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town is Muscogee (Creek), a member of the Muskogean language family. More specifically, it belongs to the Eastern Muskogean branch, also known as Southern Muskogean, and is closely related to Creek-Seminole languages. The Muscogee language, referred to as Mvskoke in the language itself, is also known as Creek, Seminole, Maskókî, or Muskogee.
Historically, Muscogee was spoken by various constituent groups of the Muscogee or Maskoki in what are now Alabama and Georgia. While related to other Muskogean languages like Hitchiti/Miccosukee, spoken by the kindred Miccosukee (Mikasuki) people, they are not mutually intelligible.
Currently, there are approximately 5,000 fluent speakers of Muscogee, primarily in Oklahoma. Around 200 Florida Seminoles are also fluent speakers. The preservation and revitalization of the Muscogee language remain a critical priority for the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town and other Muscogee communities.
Relationships and Affiliations
The Thlopthlocco Tribal Town maintains a close relationship with the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and operates under the jurisdiction of their tribal courts. This affiliation reflects the shared history, culture, and language of the two entities. While specific details regarding traditional allies and enemies are not readily available, the tribe’s history is intertwined with that of the broader Creek Confederacy.
Contemporary Life and Activities
Today, the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town is actively engaged in promoting economic development, preserving its cultural heritage, and providing services to its members. The tribe owns and operates the Golden Pony Casino, which provides employment opportunities and generates revenue for tribal programs.
While detailed information regarding traditional ceremonies, dances, art, crafts, clothing, housing, and subsistence practices specific to the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town is limited, it is understood that they share many cultural traditions with other Muscogee (Creek) communities. The Creek were historically a matrilineal society, with bloodlines traced through the mother’s side. Towns were often categorized as "Red Towns" or "White Towns," with Red Towns, like Thlopthlocco, playing a significant role in matters of war.
Historical Context
The Thlopthlocco Tribal Town was formed in the late eighteenth century near what is now Wetumka, Alabama. It was an upper Creek town within the old Creek Confederacy, which encompassed areas of Alabama and Georgia. Following the Removal Treaty of 1832, members of the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town were forced to relocate to Indian Territory, settling along the north fork of the North Canadian River. The town became one of the westernmost settlements of the Creek people.
Further Exploration
Understanding the story of the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town requires a deeper exploration of Muscogee (Creek) history, culture, and traditions. Further research into the Creek Confederacy, the Removal Era, and contemporary tribal life can provide a more comprehensive understanding of this resilient and culturally rich community.