This article provides an overview of three local North Carolina tribes — Eastern Band of Cherokees, Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, and Haiiwa-Saponi Indian Tribe.
Eastern Band of Cherokees – Western North Carolina
The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians is a Indian tribe, which was federally recognized in the 20th century and is located in Western North Carolina, specifically Cherokee, North Carolina. They descended from about 800 Cherokee residing along the Oconaluftee River who were not forcibly subjected to the Trail of Tears. The tribe resides on the Qualla Boundary, a 57,000-acre area purchased in the 1800s, adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With around 14,000 members, the tribe operates its own schools, courts, and services without federal aid, funded by tourism and Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, established in the early 1990s. They emphasize the importance of cultural preservation, namely the Cherokee language, taught at the New Kituwah Language Academy.
You can learn more and even listen to episodes on the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians by visiting the Cherokee Preservation Foundation website.
Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina – Southwestern North Carolina
The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, located in southwestern North Carolina, descends from various tribal nations, including the Hatteras, Tuscarora, and Cheraw who united in the Lumbee River area. The tribe is the largest tribe east of the Mississippi River and the ninth largest tribe in the U.S., consisting of more than 55,000 members. Recognized by North Carolina in 1885 and by Congress in 1956, the Lumbee continue to seek full federal benefits. Their headquarters are in Pembroke, and their territory spands four counties. The tribe prioritizes self-determination and cultural preservation through the teaching of significant events such as the Lowrie War. The Lumbee Cultural Center and sequential barriers created by Karen Dial Bird and Kaya Littleturtle highlight their rich history and dynamic future.
The current administration recently signed an executive order instructing the Department of Interior to “promote” federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina.
Haiiwa-Saponi Indian Tribe – North East Piedmont Region of North Carolina
The Haiiwa-Saponi Indian Tribe consists of Native American peoples who are from the geographical region known as North East Piedmont Region of North Carolina or the Halifax and Warren counties. The tribe has over 4,060 citizens that reside within the United States and globally; a majority of these citizens live near the Tribal Center, Hollister, North Carolina, in Halifax and Warren Counties. To preserve its culture and identity, the Haiiwa-Saponi Indian Tribe has created schools and other institutions since the 19th century. Additionally, they support traditions through worship in Protestant churches, subsistence activities, and oral traditions.
See this page to hear the stories of some of the Haiiwa-Saponi Indian Tribe members, including studio art, craftsmanship, and dancing.
Together, A Tribal Legacy
For each of these tribes, the Eastern Band of Cherokees, the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, and the Haiiwa-Saponi Indian Tribe, their rich histories and vibrant cultures highlight the diverse and enduring legacy of Native Americans in North Carolina. Each tribe’s commitment to cultural preservation, self-determination, and community development serves as a testament to their resilience and strength. By learning about and supporting these tribes, we can contribute to the recognition and celebration of their unique heritage and ongoing contributions to the broader tapestry of American history.
