Southern Cherokee Nation of Kentucky facts for kids

The Southern Cherokee Nation of Kentucky (SCNK) is a group of people who identify as Cherokee and live in Kentucky, United States. This group is considered an "unrecognized tribe." This means they are not officially recognized by the U.S. federal government or the state of Kentucky. In 2009, the SCNK reported having about one thousand members. These members lived in various states across the U.S. The SCNK states it is not connected to any other groups calling themselves Southern Cherokee. They are also separate from the three officially recognized Cherokee nations.

Who Are the Southern Cherokee of Kentucky?

The Southern Cherokee Nation of Kentucky is a community with a strong connection to Cherokee heritage. They aim to preserve their culture and traditions. The group is based in Kentucky. They have members living in different parts of the United States.

What Does "Unrecognized Tribe" Mean?

When a tribe is "unrecognized," it means they do not have a formal relationship with the U.S. federal government. They also might not be recognized by the state where they live. This can affect things like funding for cultural programs or land rights. Many groups work hard to gain this official recognition. It helps them protect their heritage and serve their members.

Seeking Official State Recognition

Gaining official recognition from a state is a big step for any Native American group. It helps confirm their identity and history. The Southern Cherokee Nation of Kentucky has sought this kind of recognition.

Kentucky's Stance on Tribal Recognition

The state of Kentucky has a Native American Heritage Commission. However, Kentucky does not currently recognize any Native American tribes at the state level. The state also does not have a clear process for tribes to apply for formal recognition. In 2011, a bill was proposed in Kentucky. This bill aimed to create a way for Indian tribes to apply for state recognition. The bill passed in the Kentucky House of Representatives. But it did not get a vote in the Kentucky Senate. So, the bill did not become a law.

Past Acknowledgments and Current Views

Over time, there have been different views on the Southern Cherokee Nation of Kentucky's status. In 1893, Governor John Young Brown sent a letter to the group. He welcomed them to the Kentucky State Fair. He also noted that Kentucky "recognized" the Southern Cherokee Nation as an "Indian tribe." Later, in 2006, Governor Ernie Fletcher issued a similar proclamation. These actions seemed to acknowledge the group.

However, Kentucky now says it has no state-recognized tribes. The state also disputes that any official government-to-government relationship was ever established. This means that even past acknowledgments are now seen differently. Experts like Amy Den Ouden and Jean O'Brien wrote in 2013 about these changing views. They described the past recognitions as "uncertain." This shows how complicated the process of tribal recognition can be.

Learn More About Native American History

If you are interested in learning more about Native American history and culture, here are some related topics:

• Cherokee heritage groups: These are groups of people who feel connected to Cherokee culture. They may not be enrolled in the three federally recognized Cherokee tribes.
• Cherokee in the American Civil War: Learn about the role of Cherokee people during the American Civil War.
• Ridgetop Shawnee: This is another Native American group in Kentucky that is not officially recognized.
• Scuffletown, Kentucky: This is a historic town along the Ohio River. It once had Cherokee inhabitants.