Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation facts for kids
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 1,609 enrolled members 285 enrolled (1995) |
|
| Regions with significant populations | |
 United States ( California) |
|
| Languages | |
| English, Tolowa | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| other Tolowa people, Tututni and Chetco peoples |
The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation is a group of Tolowa people who live in Del Norte County, California. They were once known as the Smith River Rancheria. This group is a federally recognized tribe. This means the United States government officially recognizes them as a Native American nation.
The Tolowa people are part of a larger group called Athabascan people. These groups are related to other Native American nations. Some relatives live far north in Alaska and Canada. Others, like the Apache and Navajo peoples, live in the American Southwest. In 2010, about 113 people were part of this specific group. Many other Tolowa people belong to different recognized tribes in California and Oregon.
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How the Nation is Governed
The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation has its main office in Smith River, California. The Nation is led by a tribal council. This council has seven members who are chosen by the people in elections. They work together to make decisions for their community.
Here are some of the people who currently help lead the Nation:
- Chairperson: Jeri Lynn Thompson
- Vice Chairperson: Scott Sullivan
- Secretary: Debbie Boardman
- Treasurer: Jaytuk Steinruck
- Councilmember: Dr. Joseph Giovannetti
- Councilmember: Amanda O'Connell
- Councilmember: Dorothy Wait
- Executive Director: Troy Ralstin
Their Land and Home
The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation is a recognized tribe. They own about 805 acres of land. This land is located in Del Norte County, California. It is just north of Crescent City.
The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation was officially started in 1906. At that time, their land was only 30 acres. The closest town to their land is Smith River. The nearest big city is Brookings, Oregon, which is about 10 miles north. Long ago, in 1862, the U.S. Government created a much larger Smith River Reservation. It was 16,000 acres, but the U.S. government stopped using it in 1868.
How the Nation Supports Itself
The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation works to create jobs and support its people. They own and run a business called the Lucky 7 Casino. They also operate the Xaa-wan'-k'wvt Village Resort. Both of these are located in Smith River, California. These businesses help the Nation earn money for its community.
Important People from the Nation
Many people from the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation have done great things. Here are a few of them:
- Eunice Bommelyn: She worked hard to keep the Tolowa language alive. She was also a cultural leader, a family historian, and a record keeper.
- Loren Me'-lash-ne Bommelyn: He is a language expert and a teacher. He also studies traditions, history, and family trees. He is known for weaving baskets.
- Drew Roberts: He was a football player at CSU Humboldt. He is in their Sports Hall of Fame.
- Jolanda Ingram Obie: She is a lawyer.
- Ron James: He is a carver, known for his artistic work.
