Table Mountain Rancheria facts for kids
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 140–160 enrolled members 11 reservation population |
|
| Regions with significant populations | |
 United States ( California) |
|
| Languages | |
| English, Yokuts language | |
| Religion | |
| traditional tribal religion, Christianity | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| other Yokuts and Monache tribes |
The Table Mountain Rancheria is a Native American tribe. They are officially recognized by the United States government. This tribe includes people from the Chukchansi band of Yokuts and the Monache tribe. Their home, also called a ranchería, is in Fresno County, California.
Contents
Understanding the Table Mountain Rancheria
What is a Ranchería?
A ranchería is a special piece of land. It is set aside by the government for Native American tribes. It serves as their community and home. The Table Mountain Rancheria is where the tribe lives and works.
Where is the Tribe Located?
The Table Mountain Rancheria was started in 1916. It is about 61 acres (25 hectares) in size. You can find it in Fresno County, California. It is close to a town called Friant, California. About eleven people live on the reservation itself. Many more tribal members, around 34, live nearby.
Exploring Tribal Culture and History
Preserving Cultural Heritage
The tribe has a special department for Cultural Resources. It was created in 1997. Its main goal is to protect and share the tribe's history. They work to save old stories and the tribe's language. They also want to build a Cultural Center and Museum.
The Tribal Museum Collection
The museum collection started with tribal elders. They would bring beautiful baskets to the Tribal Council. These baskets are very old and valuable. Over many years, much of the tribe's heritage was lost. The tribe is now working hard to bring these important items home.
Since 1996, their collection has grown a lot. It now includes baskets from over 20 different California tribes. They are also building traditional village exhibits. These will be along their Native Plant Trail. The tribe hopes to open their new Cultural Center and Museum soon.
Learning Tribal Languages
The Table Mountain Rancheria is home to two different Native American languages. You might hear "Haw lesh ma’" or "Munahoo." These are common greetings. The old language, Gashowu, is a type of Yokuts language. It is similar to Tachi and Chukchansi. The Mono language is also spoken here.
Economic Growth and Community Life
Supporting the Tribe's Future
The tribe has developed several businesses. These businesses help support the community. They own and run the Table Mountain Casino and Resort. They also own the Eagle Springs Golf Course. Both are located in Friant.
Table Mountain Casino and Resort
The Table Mountain Casino Resort is a large building. It has a casino and a twelve-story hotel. There are also several restaurants inside. These include Eagle's Landing Steakhouse and Sukai Teppanyaki. You can also find the Blue Oak Grille and Native Gathering Grounds coffee shop. There are also a few fast-food places.
A brand new Table Mountain Casino and Resort opened on July 21, 2022. The old casino building will now be used for employee offices.
