Moiya, California facts for kids

Moiya was once a settlement of the Pomo people in Mendocino County, California. It was located somewhere near the town of Hopland. Today, its exact location is not known.

The Moiya settlement was home to one of the many groups, or "bands," of Pomo people. A researcher named George Gibbs wrote about four Pomo bands living between Hopland and the coast. Besides Moiya, he mentioned Bochheaf, Tabahtea, and Ubakhea. These records help us learn about the Pomo people's history.

Who Were the Pomo People?

The Pomo people are Native Americans who have lived in what is now northern California for thousands of years. Their traditional lands are mainly in the Russian River and Clear Lake areas. They are known for their rich culture and strong connection to the land.

Pomo Way of Life

The Pomo people were skilled at living off the land. They hunted deer and other animals. They also fished in rivers and lakes. Gathering plants was very important for their food. They collected acorns, berries, and roots. These foods were a big part of their diet.

Homes and Villages

Pomo villages like Moiya were often built near rivers or lakes. This gave them easy access to water and food. Their homes were usually made from natural materials. They used wood, reeds, and earth to build their houses. These homes were designed to be cool in summer and warm in winter.

Pomo Basket Weaving

The Pomo are especially famous for their amazing basket weaving. They used plant materials like willow, sedge, and redwood. Their baskets were not just beautiful; they were also very useful. They made baskets for cooking, storing food, and carrying things. Some baskets were even used in special ceremonies.

Moiya: A Pomo Settlement

Moiya was one of the many small villages or settlements where Pomo families lived. These settlements were often connected to each other. People would trade goods and visit between villages. The exact size of Moiya is not known today.

Why is Moiya's Location Unknown?

Many Native American settlements like Moiya were not mapped in detail by early European settlers. Over time, as new towns grew, some older village sites were lost. This is why the precise location of Moiya is now a mystery. Researchers use old records and stories to try and find these lost places.

George Gibbs and Pomo History

George Gibbs was an important figure in the study of Native American cultures. He was an ethnologist, which means he studied different cultures and peoples. In the mid-1800s, he traveled through California. He wrote down what he learned about the Pomo people.

Gibbs's Research

Gibbs's writings give us valuable information about the Pomo bands. He described where they lived and their names. His work helps us understand how these groups were organized. It also shows us how they interacted with each other. His records are a key part of learning about Pomo history.