Mekoche facts for kids
The Mekoche (pronounced meh-KOH-chee) were one of five main groups, or divisions, of the Shawnee people. The Shawnee are a Native American tribe. In the 1700s, these five divisions worked together to form the larger Shawnee tribe. The other four groups were the Chalahgawtha, Kispoko, Pekowi, and Hathawekela. Each of these division names could be spelled in many different ways.
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Who Were the Mekoche?
The Mekoche division was an important part of the Shawnee tribe. They were known for their special role in the community.
Mekoche Traditions
Traditionally, people who became healers in the Shawnee tribe often came from the Mekoche division. These healers played a vital role in caring for their community's health and well-being.
Where Did They Live?
One important Mekoche village was called Pigeon Town. It was located near the Mad River in what is now Ohio. This area is about three miles northwest of West Liberty, Ohio. A small stream called Macochee Creek is also named after this Shawnee division. This creek flows into the Mad River near West Liberty.
Modern Mekoche Efforts
Since the late 1900s, a group called the Lower Eastern Ohio Mekoce Shawnee has been working to organize and preserve their heritage. This group is based in Southern Ohio and West Virginia. These areas are part of the traditional lands where the Mekoche people once lived.
Seeking Recognition
This modern Mekoche group has not yet been officially recognized by the United States government. They filed a request with the Bureau of Indian Affairs in 2001.
Cultural Activities
To keep their culture alive, the Lower Eastern Ohio Mekoce Shawnee founded The Inter Tribal Learning Circle in 1991. They have also held cultural events at a historic site called Fort Ancient in Lebanon, Ohio. These events help share their traditions and history with others.
Important Mekoche Leaders
Many important leaders came from the Mekoche division.
- Black Hoof was a famous Mekoche chief. He was a very important leader in the Ohio Country.
- Chief Russell "Logan" Sharp (1953-2010) was a leader of the Lower Eastern Ohio Mekoce Shawnee. He was from Wilmington, Ohio. In 2009, he led a special Peace Tree Ceremony at West Virginia University. He also gave talks about the challenges faced by Native American tribes that are not officially recognized by the government.
