Potter Valley Tribe facts for kids
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 200 | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| United States (California) | |
| Languages | |
| English, Pomoan languages | |
| Religion | |
| Roundhouse religion, Christianity, Kuksu | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Pomo tribes |
The Potter Valley Tribe is a Native American tribe. They are officially recognized by the United States government. This tribe is part of the larger Pomo people group. They live in Mendocino County, California.
The tribe was once known by other names. These included the Little River Band of Pomo Indians and the Potter Valley Rancheria of Pomo Indians of California. The tribe's ancestors were the first people to live in the valley. The Pomo called this area Ba-lo Kai. In 1852, people from Europe first settled there. This was near the start of the East Fork of the Russian River.
Contents
History of the Potter Valley Tribe
Changes to Tribal Status
In 1958, the U.S. Congress passed a law. It was called the "Rancheria Act." This law ended the official recognition for many Native American tribes in California. The Potter Valley Rancheria was formally terminated on August 1, 1961.
This change had a big impact. It took away the tribe's federal status. It also meant tribal members could no longer get help as Native Americans. Their land was divided among eligible members. This land then became subject to property taxes. For the first time, tribal members had to pay taxes on their own land.
One piece of land, 10 acres, was bought in 1892. Potter Valley Pomo Indians and their families continued to live there. Over the years, much of the original Rancheria land was sold. Today, only a few properties still belong to the descendants of the original residents.
Fighting for Recognition
In 1979, many tribes in northern California went to court. They sued the U.S. government. They said the government had illegally ended their tribal status. This important lawsuit was called Tillie Hardwick, et al. v. United States.
The Potter Valley Tribe is often called one of the "Tillie Hardwick Tribes." This is because they were part of this big legal case.
Regaining Self-Governance
On March 2, 1993, the Potter Valley Rancheria took an important step. They adopted their own constitution and rules. This created a Tribal Council. The Council began to manage the tribe's government.
Today, about 31 tribal members live on the reservation. They receive services there.
The Potter Valley Rancheria
About the Reservation
The Potter Valley Tribe's reservation is called the Potter Valley Rancheria. It is about 10 acres (40,000 square meters) in size. About 138 tribal members live on the reservation. The Rancheria is located on the western side of Potter Valley.
The tribe's main office is at 2251 South State Street, Ukiah, CA 95482.
Life on the Rancheria in the Past
In the early 1900s, the Rancheria was a small village. It had 11 houses and about 50 residents. These residents came from different villages in the valley. This included the Yukian Huchnom band. The Methodist Episcopal church also ran a school for the children on the reservation.
