Tukutnut, California facts for kids

Tukutnut (also known as Santa Teresa or Tucutnut) was once a large village of the Rumsen people. It was located in Monterey County, California. The Rumsen were a group of Costanoan people, who are Native Americans from the central coast of California.

According to old mission records, Tukutnut was about 3 miles (5 km) upstream from where the Carmel River meets the ocean. It was the biggest village belonging to the Rumsen group.

Tukutnut: A Village of the Rumsen People

Tukutnut was a very important place for the Rumsen people. It was a center for their community and culture. The village was known for its size and its location near the Carmel River, which was a vital resource.

Who Were the Rumsen?

The Rumsen people lived in what is now Monterey County, California, for thousands of years. They were part of a larger group called the Ohlone or Costanoan people. The Rumsen spoke their own unique language, also called Rumsen.

They lived in harmony with the land, using its resources wisely. Their way of life was deeply connected to the natural world around them.

Life in Tukutnut Village

Life in Tukutnut was organized around family and community. People worked together to gather food, build homes, and create tools. The village was a busy place with many activities happening daily.

What Did They Eat?

The Rumsen people living in Tukutnut were skilled at finding food. They gathered acorns, which were a very important food source. They also collected seeds, berries, and roots from the land.

Hunting was also a key part of their diet. They hunted deer, rabbits, and other small animals. From the Carmel River and the nearby ocean, they caught fish and collected shellfish.

How Did They Live?

The homes in Tukutnut were often made from natural materials like willow branches and tule reeds. These materials were found easily near the river. The houses were designed to be cool in summer and warm in winter.

The Rumsen people were also skilled craftspeople. They made beautiful baskets, tools, and other items for daily use. These crafts were important for their survival and their culture.

The End of Tukutnut

Tukutnut eventually became a "former" settlement because of changes that came with European arrival in California. In the late 1700s, Spanish missionaries established missions in the area. Many Rumsen people, including those from Tukutnut, moved to or were brought into these missions.

This led to the traditional village life at Tukutnut slowly fading away. The people's way of life changed significantly as they adapted to new circumstances. Today, the exact location of the village is not clearly marked, but its history is remembered.