Redwood Valley Rancheria facts for kids
The Redwood Valley Rancheria is a special place in Redwood Valley, Mendocino County, California. It is home to the Redwood Valley Little River Band of Pomo Indians, a group of Pomo Indians. This tribe is officially recognized by the United States government. This means they have the right to govern themselves, making their own decisions for their community.
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About the Redwood Valley Rancheria
Where is the Rancheria Located?
The Redwood Valley Rancheria is about 1.25 miles northeast of Redwood Valley, California. It includes 160 acres of land. This land is held "in trust" by the United States for the tribe. This means the government protects the land for the tribe's use.
The property has different types of land. Ten acres are rolling hills where the tribe's office, a learning center, and 33 homes are located. The other 150 acres are steeper, with grasslands, oak trees, and chaparral plants. The land stretches from a ridge down to the valley floor. Elevations range from 900 feet to 2300 feet. The weather here is mild, a mix between coastal and inland climates. It rains about 35 inches (889 mm) each year.
The Pomo People's Rich History
The Redwood Valley Little River Band of Pomo Indians has a long and rich history. For thousands of years, their ancestors lived along the West Fork of the Russian River. This area is north of Calpella, California. They also connected with other Pomo tribes. These tribes lived near the Russian River, the Eel River, and the Pacific Ocean.
The Pomo people were skilled hunters and gatherers. They were also famous for their beautiful basket-weaving. Music, dance, and special ceremonies were important parts of their lives. Their culture was full of unique language, art, and strong community bonds.
Challenges and Resilience
Over time, the Pomo people faced many challenges. When European settlers arrived, many changes happened. Government policies caused the Pomo people to lose their traditional lands. These policies also made it harder for them to keep their language and culture alive. It was a very difficult period for the tribe.
In 1909, the Redwood Valley Rancheria was created. It was meant to be a home for Pomo people who had lost their lands. However, in 1958, the United States Congress passed a law. This law ended the official status of the Redwood Valley Rancheria and many other tribes. This meant they lost their government recognition.
But the tribe did not give up. In 1983, a court decision ruled that this termination was not legal. As a result, the Redwood Valley Rancheria and other tribes had their official status restored. This was a huge victory for them. Since then, the tribe has worked hard. They formed their own government, got their land back, and started programs. These programs help with economic growth, education, and protecting the environment.
How the Tribe is Governed
On June 20, 1987, the Redwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians officially formed its government. They created a constitution and bylaws. A constitution is like a rulebook for how the government works. Bylaws are specific rules for how the tribe operates. This was done under a law called the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934.
Today, the tribe is governed by a General Council. This council is made up of all adult tribal members. The General Council elects a smaller group called the Tribal Council. This Tribal Council has seven members. They make daily decisions for the community. The tribe is officially recognized by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, a part of the U.S. government.
See also
- Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians of California, of the Coyote Valley Reservation
- Round Valley Indian Tribes of the Round Valley Reservation (part Pomo)
