Poarch Creek Indian Reservation facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Poarch Creek Indian Reservation
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Location of the Poarch Creek Indian Reservation
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| Tribe | Poarch Band of Creek Indians |
| Country | United States |
| State | Alabama |
| Area | |
| • Total | 0.93 km2 (0.36 sq mi) |
| Website | Poarch Band of Creek Indians |
The Poarch Creek Indian Reservation is a special place in Alabama. It is the home of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. This group is the only Native American tribe in Alabama that the United States government officially recognizes.
This reservation is found entirely within Escambia County. It is about 8 kilometers (5 miles) northwest of the town of Atmore. In 2006, about 1,000 of the Poarch Band's 2,340 members lived on or near the reservation. The reservation itself covers about 93 hectares (230 acres). The Poarch Band also owns other lands in Alabama and Florida.
Contents
A Look Back: Poarch Creek History
Early Challenges and Community Life
Many Creek Indians were forced to leave their homes in Georgia and Alabama in 1836. This was part of a sad event called the Indian Removal. But some Creeks, like those in the Tensaw area of Alabama, managed to stay. They kept their community strong around a small town called Poarch. By 1908, they even had their own schools. The federal government held a piece of land at Poarch in trust for these Indians until 1924.
Working for Recognition
In the 1940s, the Poarch Creek community started to organize. They wanted to protect their rights and lands. From 1950 to 1970, a leader named Calvin McGhee worked very hard. He led a campaign to get their land claims officially recognized. The Poarch Band raised money for this important work. They often did this through their yearly Thanksgiving Day Pow Wow. A Pow Wow is a special gathering where Native American people celebrate their culture.
Becoming a Federal Reservation
The Poarch Creek Indian Reservation became an official federal reservation in 1984. This was a big step for the tribe. It is now governed by a nine-member tribal council. This council helps make decisions for the community. The reservation provides important services like police, fire, and social help. It also has its own court system. Since 1990, the tribal government has owned a "bingo hall." They also own some small factories, a restaurant, and a motel. These businesses help support the community.
