Apalachicola people facts for kids
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| Extinct as a tribe | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| United States (Louisiana) | |
| Languages | |
| Muskogean | |
| Religion | |
| Christianity | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Creek, other Muskogean peoples |
The Apalachicola (also called Pallachacola) were a group of Native Americans. They were related to the Muscogee people, also known as the Creek. The Apalachicola spoke a Muskogean language. This language was similar to Hitchiti.
They used to live along the Apalachicola River in what is now Florida. Their name likely comes from the Hitchiti word Apalachicoli or the Muskogee word Apalachicolo. These words probably mean "People of the other side." This might refer to the Apalachicola River or a nearby stream.
History
Moving to the Savannah River
Around 1706, some Apalachicola people moved. They left the Apalachicola River area. They went to the Savannah River. This river later became the border between South Carolina and Georgia.
Some historians think they might have been captured. They were then forced to move to the Savannah River. In 1708, a count of people was done. It said there were 80 Apalachicola men living in a town. This town was about 20 miles up the Savannah River.
In 1715, another count was made by John Barnwell. It showed that 214 Apalachicola people lived in two villages. There were 64 men, 71 women, 42 boys, and 37 girls.
Returning Home and Moving West
In 1715, the Apalachicola joined other Native American groups. They were part of a conflict against South Carolina. After this conflict, the survivors went back to the Apalachicola River. They settled near where the Chattahoochee and Flint rivers meet.
Later, some moved north. They lived along the Chattahoochee River. This area is now Russell County, Alabama.
In 1830, the United States passed a law called the Indian Removal Act. This law put pressure on Native American groups. The Apalachicola signed two agreements in 1833 and 1834. They agreed to give up their lands in the Southeast. In return, they would get land west of the Mississippi River.
From 1836 to 1840, the Apalachicola moved. They went to Indian Territory, which is now Oklahoma. There, they joined other Creek peoples. Their descendants are now part of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation.
Legacy
The Apalachicola people are remembered in several names. The Apalachicola River is named after them. So is Apalachicola Bay. The city of Apalachicola, Florida also carries their name.
