Columbia-Moses language facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Moses-Columbia |
|
|---|---|
| Columbia-Wenatchi Nxaʔamxcín |
|
| Native to | United States of America |
| Region | northern Idaho, eastern Washington |
| Ethnicity | 230 (2000 census) |
| Native speakers | 40 (2007)e18 |
| Language family |
Salishan
|
| Dialects |
Columbian
Wenatchi
|
|
|
Moses-Columbia is a special language, also known as Columbia-Wenatchi or Nxaʔamxcín. It's part of the Salishan family, which includes many languages spoken by Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest. This language is very old and has a rich history. Sadly, it is now considered critically endangered, meaning very few people still speak it.
About the Language
Moses-Columbia belongs to the Southern Interior Salish group. This group of languages is found in the interior parts of the Pacific Northwest. The language has two main forms, called dialects. These are the Columbia dialect and the Wenatchi dialect.
Columbia and Wenatchi Dialects
The Columbia dialect is also known as Sinkiuse or Columbian. It was traditionally spoken by the Sinkiuse-Columbia people. The Wenatchi dialect has other names like Wenatchee, Entiat, and Chelan. This dialect is the traditional language of the Wenatchi, Chelan, and Entiat tribes.
Who Speaks Moses-Columbia?
Today, the few remaining speakers of Moses-Columbia live on the Colville Indian Reservation. This reservation is located in eastern Washington state. The Columbia people, who speak this language, were historically followers of a famous leader named Chief Moses. Efforts are being made to help keep this important language alive for future generations.
