“Southern Kith and Kin: A Record of My Children’s Ancestors” is a comprehensive four-volume genealogical record compiled by Jewel Davis Scarborough, first published in 1951. This detailed work traces the lineage and historical narratives of several families from the colonial period through the early 20th century, focusing particularly on their roles in American history and migration patterns.
The Tutelo Indians, part of the Siouan linguistic family, were closely related to the Saponi and possibly the Monacan. Historically, they inhabited areas near Salem, Virginia, and moved to locations along the Roanoke River and later to Cayuga Inlet in New York. Their population fluctuated, with estimates of around 300 in 1715. Though their village was destroyed in 1779, they maintained their language until the death of the last fluent speaker in 1898. The Tutelo are notable for being one of the last Siouan groups to preserve their identity and language.
The Saponi Indians, a Siouan linguistic tribe closely related to the Tutelo, likely originated from the term Monasiccapano, meaning “shallow water.” They are historically associated with villages along the Rivanna River in Virginia. Over time, they migrated to Otter Creek and later to the junction of the Staunton and Dan Rivers while fleeing Iroquois attacks. By the 18th century, part of the Saponi moved north to Pennsylvania, while others remained in North Carolina, where they eventually merged with neighboring tribes. Their population dwindled over the centuries, with reports indicating only small numbers by the mid-1700s.
The Occaneechi Indians, whose name’s meaning is unknown, were part of the Siouan linguistic stock and closely related to the Tutelo and Saponi tribes. They inhabited the middle island of the Roanoke River, Virginia, and became known as traders in the region by 1670. Joined by the Tutelo and Saponi, they later migrated southward due to pressure from the Iroquois and English settlers. By 1701, they resettled on the Eno River in North Carolina and eventually adopted the name of the Saponi.
The Occaneechi were a small Eastern Siouan tribe located in southern Virginia and northern North Carolina. Documented by Lederer in 1670, they lived on Roanoke River’s largest island, cultivating corn and maintaining a year’s supply. They interacted closely with the Saponi and Tutelo, sharing language and customs. Their society was led by two chiefs, overseeing war and agriculture, while their culture included ceremonial feasting. Facing pressures from the Iroquois and Virginians, they eventually migrated south to Eno River by 1701.
The Tutelo and Saponi tribes, historically linked, have roots tracing back to 1670. As survivors of various conflicts, they faced continuous pressure from the Iroquois, leading to their migration from Virginia into North Carolina and later to Fort Christanna in Virginia for protection. Despite Governor Spotswood’s efforts to civilize them, they struggled, facing internal strife and external threats. By the mid-18th century, they gradually relocated to Pennsylvania under Iroquois protection, ultimately losing their distinction as tribes due to assimilation and decline.
The Saponi were an eastern Siouan tribe originally from North Carolina and Virginia, now extinct. Historically linked with the Tutelo, their language and culture showed strong similarities. The tribe faced conflicts with Virginia settlers and moved frequently to escape enemies, ultimately settling near Roanoke and later in North Carolina. By the mid-18th century, they allied with the Cayuga and were documented living in Pennsylvania and New York. The last historical mentions suggest a remnant existed with the Cayuga, after which their fate remains unknown.