Chatot

Natchez, Mobilians, Chatots, Thomez and Tensas

History of Alabama and incidentally of Georgia and Mississippi, from the earliest period

In 1718, the French West India Company sent 800 colonists to Louisiana, including Le Page Du Pratz, who documented local tribes. Near Mobile, he encountered the Chatots and Thomez, both small tribes embracing Catholicism. The Tensas, a branch of the Natchez, maintained a temple fire, reflecting their similar customs. The Natchez, known for their despotism and elaborate rituals, suffered significant decline after conflicts with the French. By 1733, their population diminished further as they sought refuge among other tribes after violent confrontations.

Chatot Indians

The Chatot Tribe, linked to the Muskhogean language family, inhabited areas west of the Apalachicola River, notably near the Chipola River. Their recorded history begins in 1639, highlighting conflicts and missions established in 1674. After conflicts with other tribes and the Spanish, they relocated to Mobile, Alabama, where they were granted land. Following the English takeover in 1763, they migrated to Louisiana. The Chatot population dwindled significantly over time, with recorded numbers decreasing from approximately 1,200 in 1674 to around 100 by 1805.

Chatot Indian Tribe

The Chatot tribe, distinct from the Creek confederacy, thrived along the Apalachicola River and were mentioned as early as 1639. Spanish missions were established among them in 1674, but by 1706, they faced increasing hostilities from allied forces, leading to their migration to Mobile. In Louisiana, they were documented as a small, distinct group as late as 1817. Their fate remains unclear, but they may have integrated into nearby Choctaw communities.

Chatot Tribe

The Chatot Indians were a tribe settled by the French south of Fort St. Louis, Mobile Bay, Alabama, in 1709. Bienville relocated his settlement to their territory and compensated the Chatot with land along Dog River. Historical accounts suggest that the Chatot, along with the Tohome tribe, were related to the Choctaw and communicated in both French and Choctaw languages.