Fort Yuma Indian Reservation facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Fort Yuma Indian Reservation
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Fort Yuma United Methodist Indian Church, located on the reservation
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Location of Fort Yuma Indian Reservation at the border of Yuma County, Arizona and Imperial County, California
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| Tribe | Quechan |
| Country | United States |
| State | California and Arizona |
| Area | |
| • Total | 178.197 km2 (68.802 sq mi) |
| Population
(2010)
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| • Total | 2,189 |
| Website | Fort Yuma Quechan Tribe |
The Fort Yuma Indian Reservation is a special area of land that belongs to the Quechan people. It's located where the states of California and Arizona meet, right near the city of Yuma, Arizona. This reservation was created in 1884 from an old military post called Fort Yuma. The Quechan people have lived in this area for a very long time, and the city and county of Yuma are even named after their tribe!
As of 2010, about 2,189 people lived on the reservation. The land covers about 178 square kilometers (about 68 square miles). It's an important place for the Quechan tribe, helping them keep their culture and traditions alive.
Contents
Fort Yuma Indian Reservation History
The Fort Yuma Indian Reservation was officially set up in 1884. Before that, the land was home to Fort Yuma, a military post. This fort was important for controlling the Colorado River crossing.
The Quechan people have lived in this area for thousands of years. Their traditional lands stretched along the Colorado River. They were known for their farming and their strong connection to the river.
Changes to the Land
In 1910, a part of the reservation was declared "surplus" land. This happened because of a law called the Dawes Act. This act aimed to divide tribal lands into smaller pieces.
Because of this act, some land was opened up for non-Native American settlers. This led to the creation of the community of Bard, California, on what was once reservation land.
The Quechan People
The Quechan people are a Native American tribe. They are also known as the Yuma people. Their language is part of the Yuman language family.
The Quechan have a rich history and culture. They traditionally lived near the Colorado River. The river was central to their way of life, providing water for farming and transportation.
Modern Life on the Reservation
Today, the Quechan Tribe works to support its members and preserve its heritage. They manage their own government and services on the reservation.
In 2009, the Quechan Tribe opened a large resort called the Quechan Casino Resort. This resort helps create jobs and brings money to the tribe. It's an important part of their economy today.
The reservation is a place where the Quechan people can maintain their identity. It helps them pass on their traditions to younger generations.
