The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians (UKB) stands as a distinct and federally recognized tribe with a rich history intricately woven into the broader narrative of Cherokee people. Its establishment is rooted in the significant legislative actions of the 20th century, specifically the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 and the Oklahoma Indian Welfare Act of 1936. These acts provided a framework for tribal self-governance and economic development, enabling the UKB to formally organize and pursue its own path while preserving its unique cultural identity.
This article delves into the specific criteria that determine eligibility for enrollment within the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians. Understanding these requirements is crucial for individuals seeking to affirm their heritage and participate in the rights and responsibilities of tribal membership. The core of these requirements revolves around a demonstrable connection to the "Old Settler" or Keetoowah Cherokee lineage, measured through a specific blood quantum.
Blood Quantum: A Measure of Ancestry
At the heart of the UKB’s enrollment criteria lies the concept of blood quantum. Currently, the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indian enrollment requirements mandate a minimum of 1/4 degree of "Old Settler"/Keetoowah Cherokee blood. This means that an applicant must be able to trace their ancestry back to the "Old Settlers" and possess at least one-quarter of their genetic heritage.
Blood quantum is a controversial but legally recognized method used by many Native American tribes to determine membership. It is intended to ensure that tribal citizens have a demonstrable lineage and connection to the tribe’s historical and cultural identity. In the case of the UKB, this connection is specifically tied to the "Old Settlers," a group with a distinct historical experience.
Defining the "Old Settlers": A Historical Perspective
The term "Old Settlers" carries a precise legal and historical definition within the context of the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indian enrollment requirements. This designation refers to a specific group of Cherokee people who migrated to the Arkansas Territory under the treaties of 1817 and 1819, well before the infamous Trail of Tears. Understanding the historical context of this migration is essential to grasping the significance of the "Old Settler" designation.
Driven by a combination of factors, including pressure from encroaching settlers and the allure of new opportunities, these Cherokee individuals voluntarily relocated westward. They established settlements in the area between the Arkansas and White Rivers, west of a line extending from present-day Batesville to a point approximately midway between the cities of Conway and Morrilton, Arkansas. While the eastern boundary was defined, the western boundary remained undefined, leaving room for expansion and adaptation within the territory.
The "Old Settlers" developed their own communities and governance structures in this new land, forging a distinct identity separate from those who remained in the Cherokee Nation east of the Mississippi. This early migration set them apart and contributed to the unique history of the Keetoowah people.
Establishing Proof: Census Rolls as Key Documents
Given the specific definition of "Old Settlers," the UKB relies on two primary census rolls to verify an applicant’s ancestral connection and determine eligibility for enrollment. These rolls serve as crucial documentary evidence, providing a tangible link to the past and ensuring the accuracy of enrollment decisions.
The first, and perhaps most critical, document is the Emigration Roll of 1817. This roll lists those Cherokee individuals who elected to emigrate to the Arkansas Territory under the aforementioned treaties of 1817 and 1819. Inclusion on this roll serves as initial proof that an ancestor was part of the "Old Settler" migration.
However, inclusion on the Emigration Roll alone is not sufficient. The second key document is the Old Settler Roll of 1851. This roll includes those individuals from the original emigrant group who were still living in 1851 and resided in what is now Oklahoma when the main body of Cherokee people arrived in 1839, following their forced removal along the Trail of Tears. This roll effectively confirms their continued connection to the "Old Settler" community.
Dawes Commission and Citizenship Retention
The Dawes Commission, established in the late 19th century, played a significant role in the allotment of tribal lands and the enrollment of Native Americans. Within the context of the "Old Settlers," those individuals listed on the 1851 census who also enrolled under the Dawes Commission retained their citizenship within the Cherokee Nation. This distinction is important because it highlights the complex interplay between tribal affiliation and federal policies.
However, those individuals on the 1851 census who did not enroll under the Dawes Commission faced a different outcome. Their citizenship status became more ambiguous, highlighting the lasting impact of federal policies on tribal membership and identity.
Summary: Defining the "Old Settler" Identity
In summary, the term "Old Settler" as it pertains to the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indian enrollment requirements, refers specifically to those Cherokee individuals who:
- Voluntarily emigrated to the Arkansas Territory between 1817 and approximately 1840.
- Are listed on both the Emigration Roll of 1817 and the Old Settler Roll of 1851.
- Resided in what is now Oklahoma when the main body of Cherokee arrived in 1839.
Meeting these criteria is paramount for establishing the necessary ancestral connection to qualify for enrollment within the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians. It signifies a direct link to the unique history and heritage of the "Old Settler" Keetoowah Cherokee people.
Implications for Enrollment: Navigating the Process
The enrollment process for the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians can be complex and require meticulous documentation. Applicants must be prepared to provide genealogical records, census information, and other supporting evidence to demonstrate their lineage and meet the blood quantum requirement. This often involves tracing family histories, locating relevant documents, and potentially engaging with genealogical experts.
Understanding the specific requirements and the historical context surrounding the "Old Settler" designation is crucial for a successful application. It is recommended that prospective applicants thoroughly research their family history and consult with the UKB’s enrollment office for guidance and assistance.
Conclusion: Preserving Heritage and Identity
The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indian enrollment requirements reflect a commitment to preserving the tribe’s unique heritage and identity. By focusing on demonstrable connections to the "Old Settler" lineage, the UKB seeks to ensure that its citizens share a common history and cultural foundation. While blood quantum remains a controversial topic, it serves as a legal mechanism for defining tribal membership and safeguarding the integrity of the UKB’s identity for future generations.
The ongoing discussion and potential revisions to these requirements underscore the dynamic nature of tribal governance and the ongoing effort to balance historical accuracy with the evolving needs of the community. Understanding these enrollment criteria is essential for anyone seeking to connect with their Keetoowah heritage and participate in the vibrant future of the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians.