Susanville Indian Rancheria facts for kids
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 698 | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
 United States ( California) |
|
| Languages | |
| English, Mountain Maidu, Northern Paiute language |
|
| Religion | |
| traditional tribal religion, Christianity | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Achomawi, Atsugewi, Mountain Maidu, Northern Paiute and Washoe people |
The Susanville Indian Rancheria is a special place in northeastern California. It's home to Native American people from several different tribes. These tribes include the Washoe, Achomawi, Mountain Maidu, Northern Paiute, and Atsugewi people. The United States government officially recognizes them as a tribe.
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The Rancheria's Land and Home
The Susanville Rancheria was started in 1923. It is located in Lassen County, California. Over the years, the tribe has added more land to their home. By 2010, the total land owned by the Rancheria was about 1,337 acres. This land helps the tribe preserve their culture and natural resources.
In 2016, a special law helped the tribe get more land back. Senators Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein and Representative Doug LaMalfa supported this law. The government gave 300 acres of traditional tribal land back to the Rancheria. This land is now held in trust for the tribe.
Tribal Chairman Brandon Gutierez said this land return is very important. It helps the tribe protect their ancestors' lands. It also protects important cultural items like old camp remains and ancient rock carvings. Many traditional medicinal plants grow there too. The land is also a path for animals like antelope and mule deer.
How the Rancheria Supports Itself
The Susanville Indian Rancheria works to create jobs and support its community. In 2009, they started a new business group called SIRCO. SIRCO stands for Susanville Indian Rancheria Corporation. This group manages all the tribe's businesses. It is separate from the tribal government.
SIRCO runs several businesses in Susanville. These include the Diamond Mountain Casino, the 24 Hour Cafe, and the Lava Rock Grill. They also operate the Diamond Mountain Casino Hotel. In 2011, the Diamond Mountain Smoke Shop opened.
SIRCO has also created companies that work with the federal government. These companies help the tribe get contracts for different projects. For example, Four Tribes Construction Services builds things. SFS Global, LLC and SIRCOMED (which helps with medical staffing) are other companies. These businesses help bring money and jobs to the tribe and its members.
SIRCO also manages 120 housing units in Herlong, California. These homes are for members of the Rancheria.
A Look at the Rancheria's History
In 1923, the federal government bought 30 acres of land. This land was for Native Americans in the area who did not have a place to live. The tribe officially adopted their own rules and government in 1969. This helped them gain official recognition from the federal government. This recognition came under the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934.
Learning and Education
Children living on the ranchería attend local schools. These schools are part of the Susanville Elementary School District and Lassen Union High School District.
Notable People from the Rancheria
- Jean LaMarr, an artist and activist
