Eel River Tribe facts for kids
The Eel River people are a Native American tribe. Long ago, when Europeans first arrived, they lived along the Eel River in what is now the state of Indiana. They are an important part of Indiana's history.
Who Are the Eel River People?
The Eel River people are a group of Native Americans. They lived in villages along the Eel River. This river flows through what is now Indiana. Their traditional lands were rich in resources. They hunted, fished, and farmed to support their communities.
Their Connections to Other Tribes
The Eel River tribe was sometimes seen as part of the larger Miami Indians. The Miami were a powerful group in the region. The Eel River people also shared many customs with them. Sometimes, people confused the Eel River tribe with other nearby groups. These included the Wea, the Piankeshaw, and the Pokias. This shows how connected these different tribes were. They often lived near each other and shared traditions.
The Eel River Tribe Today
In recent times, efforts have been made to bring the Eel River Tribe of Indiana back together. A person named Mike Floyd has played a big role in this. He has even been chosen as their Chief. The tribe has held gatherings to connect members. For example, they met in 2008 and 2009. In 2001, members of the Eel River Tribe were featured in a TV show. They appeared in the PBS series called We Shall Remain. This series tells the story of Native American history. Mike Floyd has also put together a book of information about the Eel River Tribe. This book helps people learn more about their history.