Hainai facts for kids
The Hainai (pronounced like HIGH-nye) were a Native American tribe. They lived in what is now eastern Texas. Their name in the Caddo language was Háynay.
The Hainai were also known by other names like Aynais, Aynay, Ainai, Ioni, Huawni, and Ayonai. They were a very important group within the Hasinai confederacy. This confederacy was a large group of tribes that worked together. The Hainai were part of the bigger Caddo Nation.
They traditionally lived near the Neches and Angelina rivers. These rivers are west of the city we now call Nacogdoches.
Hainai in History
In 1805, a US agent named Dr. John Sibley reported on the Hainai. He said the tribe had about 80 warriors at that time. This was in Natchitoches, Louisiana.
Later, in 1837, the Republic of Texas mentioned the Hainai. They were linked to the Yowani Choctaws living near Attoyac Bayou. This area is now in southeastern Rusk County, Texas.
Some of the Hainai people later became connected with the Mount Tabor Indian Community]. This community is in east Texas. A historian named Mooney also said the Yowani were part of the Caddo Confederacy.
Today's Hainai Descendants
Today, the descendants of the Hainai Caddo are officially recognized citizens. They are part of the Caddo Nation of Oklahoma. The main office for the Caddo Nation is in Binger, Oklahoma.
The Mount Tabor Indian Community is recognized by the State of Texas. However, it is not recognized by the US federal government. Their main office is in Kilgore, Texas.
