The Native American Tribes in North Carolina

North Carolina is rich in Native American history, with eight recognized tribes currently residing in the state. These tribes have a long and complicated history, and many of them have played a significant role in shaping North Carolina’s culture and traditions. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of the Native American tribes in North Carolina.

The Coharie Indian Tribe

The Coharie Indian Tribe is located in Sampson and Harnett counties in North Carolina. This tribe has a total of 2,500 enrolled members, with approximately 1,100 residing in North Carolina. The Coharie Indian Tribe is recognized by the state of North Carolina and has been working towards federal recognition since 1979.

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians is the largest Native American tribe in North Carolina, with over 14,000 enrolled members. This tribe resides in the western part of the state, primarily in the city of Cherokee. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has its own sovereign government, and the tribe is recognized by both the state of North Carolina and the federal government.

The Haliwa-Saponi Tribe

The Haliwa-Saponi Tribe is located in Halifax and Warren counties in North Carolina. This tribe has a total of 4,000 enrolled members, with approximately 3,000 residing in North Carolina. The Haliwa-Saponi Tribe is recognized by both the state of North Carolina and the federal government.

The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina

The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina is the largest tribe east of the Mississippi River, with over 50,000 enrolled members. This tribe resides in Robeson, Hoke, Cumberland, and Scotland counties in North Carolina. The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina is currently seeking full federal recognition, which would grant the tribe sovereignty and increased funding.

The Meherrin Indian Tribe

The Meherrin Indian Tribe is located in Hertford County in North Carolina. This tribe has a total of 900 enrolled members, with approximately 600 residing in North Carolina. The Meherrin Indian Tribe is recognized by both the state of North Carolina and the federal government.

The Occaneechi Band of the Saponi Nation

The Occaneechi Band of the Saponi Nation is located in Alamance and Orange counties in North Carolina. This tribe has a total of 1,500 enrolled members, with approximately 800 residing in North Carolina. The Occaneechi Band of the Saponi Nation is recognized by both the state of North Carolina and the federal government.

The Sappony Tribe

The Sappony Tribe is located in Person, Granville, and Halifax counties in North Carolina. This tribe has a total of 900 enrolled members, with approximately 500 residing in North Carolina. The Sappony Tribe is recognized by the state of North Carolina and is currently seeking federal recognition.

The Waccamaw Siouan Tribe

The Waccamaw Siouan Tribe is located in Columbus and Bladen counties in North Carolina. This tribe has a total of 1,200 enrolled members, with approximately 800 residing in North Carolina. The Waccamaw Siouan Tribe is recognized by both the state of North Carolina and the federal government.

In conclusion, North Carolina is home to eight recognized Native American tribes, each with its own unique culture, traditions, and history. While these tribes have faced many challenges over the years, they have managed to maintain their identities and continue to contribute to North Carolina’s rich history and cultural heritage.

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