Mohawk people (Oregon) facts for kids
The Mohawk people, sometimes called the Mohawk River people, were a group of Native Americans. They were part of the larger Kalapuya family of tribes. The Mohawk originally lived near the Mohawk River in what is now Oregon, United States. They spoke a special version, or dialect, of the Central Kalapuya language.
Contents
Who Were the Mohawk People?
The Mohawk were one of many groups that made up the Kalapuya people. They lived in the beautiful Oregon area for a very long time. Their home was specifically around the Mohawk River. Like many Native American groups, they had their own language, traditions, and way of life.
Important Treaties and Moving
The Dayton Treaty
In 1855, the Mohawk people, along with other Kalapuya groups, signed an important agreement. This was called the Treaty with the Kalapuya, etc., also known as the Dayton Treaty. This treaty was made with the United States government. A person named Joel Palmer, who was an official for Native American affairs in Oregon, helped arrange this treaty.
Moving to a New Home
After signing the treaty, the Mohawk people had to move. In 1856, they were moved to the Grand Ronde Indian Reservation. A reservation is a special area of land set aside for Native American tribes. At Grand Ronde, the Mohawk joined many other tribes and groups. They all lived together on this new land.
Rebuilding and Recognition
A New Beginning
For a while, the official recognition of the combined tribes at Grand Ronde ended in 1954. However, the members of these tribes worked hard to reorganize. They wanted to keep their culture and community strong.
Gaining Federal Recognition
Their efforts paid off! In 1983, the tribes at Grand Ronde were officially recognized again by the United States government. They became known as the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon. Today, people who are descendants of the Mohawk people are part of this confederation. They have their own reservation in Yamhill and Polk counties in Oregon. This means they have their own land and government.
