Paiute
Northern Paiute Indians
The Northern Paiute, also referred to by various names including Monachi and Paviotso, are a group distinct from traditional tribes, primarily inhabiting western Nevada, southeastern Oregon, and parts of California. They have a complex dialectic division within the Shoshonean Branch of the Uto-Aztecan stock. Historically, they faced displacement in the 19th century due to the encroachment of neighboring tribes and European settlers. Their villages reflected a diverse, often fluctuating population based on economic needs, with interactions with European trappers beginning around 1825, leading to both conflict and cultural resilience.
Southern Paiute Indians
The Southern Paiute, also known by various names including Nüma and Diggers, are part of the Ute-Chemehuevi group within the Shoshonean branch of the Ute-Aztecan stock. They inhabit regions across western Utah, northwestern Arizona, southeastern Nevada, and parts of California. While they encountered Spanish explorers in the 16th and 17th centuries, significant encroachment on their lands began after U.S. annexation of California and New Mexico. Although they have faced population declines, their connections to the land and identity remain significant, despite occasional tensions with settlers.
Digger Indians
The Digger Indians, originally identified as the Nuanuints tribe near St George, Utah, were notable for being the only Paiute tribe engaged in agriculture. Over time, the term “Digger” came to encompass various tribes across California, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, and Arizona that relied heavily on root-based diets. As a result of this dietary distinction, the label became derogatory, associating them with a perceived lower status among Indian tribes. In contrast, more northerly and easterly tribes, such as the Shoshoni, were seen as more robust, focusing on hunting and larger game.
Chemehuevi Tribe
The Chemehuevi, a Shoshonean tribe related to the Paiute, originally inhabited the eastern bank of the Colorado River, particularly around Chemehuevi Valley. First noted by Fray Francisco Garcés in the late 18th century, they had a distinct language differing from other local tribes. They engaged in small-scale agriculture and were known for their mobility and hunting prowess. Their population was estimated to be around 750 in the mid-19th century, with later counts showing about 300 on the Colorado River reservation by 1903.
Paiute Indian Chiefs and Leaders
Big Bill, a Paiute chief, was involved in the Mountain Meadows Massacre of 1857 alongside Mormon John D. Lee. Wovoka, known as “The Cutter,” was a prominent Paiute dreamer and medicine man born around 1856 in Nevada. He is credited with initiating the Ghost Dance movement and was influenced by his father, Tavibo. Raised by a white rancher, he also went by the name Jack Wilson. While he remained alive into 1905, his influence had diminished significantly by then.
Paiute Tribe
The term “Paiute” has historically caused confusion, as it has been applied to many Shoshonean tribes across several western states. Initially thought to relate to water or truth, its origins remain unclear. Ethnographer John Wesley Powell suggested it exclusively referred to the Corn Creek tribe, while the larger groups, including those at Walker River and Pyramid Lake, are better classified as Paviotso. Despite their diverse bands and lack of central leadership, the Paiute are known for their peaceable nature, industriousness, and adaptability within the changing landscape of American society.
Condition of the Idaho Indians in 1890
In 1890, the Indian population in Idaho was summarized across various reservations, reflecting a complex mix of tribes and their current living conditions. The Bannocks and Shoshones, primarily at Fort Hall, were intermarried and faced challenges in adapting to farming and ranching. The Nez Percé, largely Presbyterian, cultivated their lands but contended with white cattle intrusions. The Coeur d’Alene tribes were more assimilated, living in frame houses and attending church. Each group exhibited varying degrees of adaptation and socio-economic stability amidst ongoing struggles with cultural preservation and external pressures.
Narratives – Nátci’s – Sign Language
Dr. W.J. Hoffman recorded a detailed narrative by Nátci, a Pai-Ute chief, outlining an expedition to prevent the Pai-Utes from aligning with the hostile Banaks in 1880. Nátci describes the journey, interactions with Banaks, and the subsequent return to his chief. Utilizing gestures and sign language, he conveyed important aspects of the trip, including meetings, counsel, and eventual escape. The narrative showcases both the Pai-Ute culture and their nuanced communication through sign language as a means of conveying complex information.