After the Indian Removal Act, the Cayuse tribe primarily lived as part of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla, establishing their presence on a 172,000-acre reservation near Pendleton, Oregon. This move marked a significant shift in their traditional territories and lifestyle, adapting to reservation life as a means of survival and self-governance.
The Formation of the Umatilla Reservation
The Indian Removal Act of 1830, while primarily impacting tribes in the southeastern United States, set a precedent for federal Indian policy that led to widespread displacement and the eventual establishment of reservations across the country. For the Cayuse, along with the Umatilla and Walla Walla tribes, their future became intertwined through treaties signed in the mid-19th century, leading to the formation of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.
This reservation, established in 1855, provided a designated homeland for the confederated tribes, including the Cayuse, ensuring their continued existence as a distinct people. Located in the fertile lands of northeastern Oregon, the reservation offered a new framework for their community, governance, and cultural preservation.
Key Aspects of the Cayuse Presence on the Reservation
The Cayuse, as a constituent tribe of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla, have maintained a strong cultural identity and active community on their reservation. Their journey after the Indian Removal Act period demonstrates resilience and adaptation.
Here are some key facts about their living situation:
- Location: The reservation is situated near Pendleton, Oregon, a significant geographic anchor for the tribal community.
- Acreage: It encompasses a vast area of 172,000 acres, providing ample space for residential, cultural, and economic activities.
- Self-Sufficiency: The Confederated Tribes operate with a substantial annual budget, demonstrating their economic independence and capability for self-governance. This financial strength supports various tribal programs and services.
- Economic Ventures: To sustain their community, the tribes have diversified into various businesses. These include successful ventures such as a casino and a wind farm, which contribute significantly to their economic well-being and provide employment opportunities for tribal members.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Location | Near Pendleton, Oregon |
| Affiliation | Part of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla |
| Reservation Size | 172,000 acres |
| Economic Impact | Annual operating budget of nearly $230 million |
| Key Businesses | Casino, wind farm, and other ventures aimed at tribal self-sufficiency and community development |
| Historical Context | Established after the period influenced by the Indian Removal Act, through treaties that designated reservation lands for tribal communities. |
The establishment of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation allowed the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla peoples to maintain their heritage and governance in the face of immense historical pressures. Their continued presence on this land underscores their enduring legacy and commitment to their cultural identity.
For more information on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, you can visit the Oregon Encyclopedia.
