Kikiallus Indian Nation facts for kids
The Kikiallus Indian Nation is a Native American group located in Skagit County, Washington. While the United States government does not officially recognize them as a tribe, the state government of Washington does. This means they are recognized by the state, but not by the federal government.
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Who Are the Kikiallus?
The Kikiallus people are among the original Native American inhabitants of Skagit County. They have lived in this area for a very long time, making them an important part of the region's history.
Their Homeland and History
The Kikiallus traditionally lived along the banks of the Skagit River in an area known today as La Conner, close to Fir Island. This river and the nearby bay were central to their way of life. The Kikiallus spoke the Salish language, which is part of a larger family of languages spoken by many Native American groups in the Pacific Northwest.
Living Off the Land
For the Kikiallus, the river and bay were vital for survival. They gathered food like clams and fish from these waters. They also collected berries from the land. Their lives involved moving with the seasons. In both winter and summer, they traveled from the Skagit River Valley, crossing the Cascade Mountains, and journeying as far south as the area where the city of Seattle is now located. This movement allowed them to find different resources throughout the year.
Important Historical Records
The Kikiallus are mentioned in important historical documents that show their presence and interactions with the United States government.
The Roberts Rolls
The Kikiallus people are listed in the Roberts Rolls. These rolls are official records that list Native American individuals who were part of tribes in the Pacific Northwest during a specific historical period. Being included in these rolls helps confirm their historical existence and connection to the land.
The Treaty of Point Elliott
The Kikiallus are also referenced in the Treaty of Point Elliott. This treaty was signed in 1855 between the United States government and many Native American tribes in the Puget Sound region of Washington Territory. Treaties like this often involved tribes giving up land in exchange for certain rights or resources, and sometimes the creation of reservations.
Choosing Their Own Path
Unlike many other tribes who signed treaties, the Kikiallus chose not to have a formal reservation. Instead, they decided to continue living their traditional way of life. This choice allowed them to maintain their customs and practices without being confined to a specific land area set aside by the government.
