Can I Prove My Cherokee Ancestry if I Can't Find My Family Name on the Dawes Roll?

Proving Cherokee ancestry can be challenging, especially if your family name does not appear on the Dawes Roll. However, there are several steps you can take to establish your ancestry. Below are the various methods you may consider to investigate your family's historical connection to the Cherokee Nation.

Gather Documentation

Collect any available documents that may link you to your Cherokee ancestors. This includes birth certificates, marriage licenses, death certificates, and family bibles that record family history. These records can serve as valuable evidence in your search.

Research Family History

Conduct thorough genealogical research. Look for census records, land records, and other public documents that might mention your ancestors and their connections to the Cherokee Nation. Utilizing online databases and archives can help uncover more detailed information.

Look for Alternative Rolls

Besides the Dawes Roll, there are other historical records and rolls that may include your ancestors. This includes the Guion Miller Roll or the Baker Roll. These rolls were created for different purposes and may include individuals not listed on the Dawes Roll. Researching these alternative sources can provide additional leads.

Consult Tribal Enrollment Offices

Contact the Cherokee Nation or other recognized Cherokee tribes to inquire about their enrollment criteria. Some tribes may accept alternative documentation for proving ancestry. Understanding their requirements can be crucial in your pursuit of Cherokee heritage.

Consider DNA Testing

Consider taking a DNA test through a reputable company that specializes in ancestry testing. While DNA alone cannot serve as proof of tribal enrollment, it can provide additional evidence of your Native American ancestry. Numerous companies offer genetic tests that can reveal your ancestral background.

Engage with Native American Genealogists

Seek assistance from genealogists who specialize in Native American ancestry. They may have insights or resources that can help you in your search. Professionals in this field can offer guidance and support, making the process easier and more efficient.

Participate in Community Resources

Join forums or groups focused on Cherokee ancestry. Engaging with others who share similar interests can provide support and potentially lead to new information. Online communities can be instrumental in sharing resources and tips.

Understand Other Possible Ancestral Connections

First, ignore anyone telling your ancestors lied to you. There is also the rejected rolls—the people who applied for Dawes but the Dawes commission rejected their application. The reason for rejection was they were not Cherokee. Many of these individuals could still have mixed-Native American heritage.

Second, explore the background of three groups of Catawba who attempted federal recognition in the 1880s and 1890s but were rejected. One group in Utah, one in Oklahoma, and one in Georgia. The government's refusal was due to the policy of abolishing tribal relationships and settling Indians on separate tracts of land. Assimilation was seen as a hindrance to this policy.

Not having a name on the Dawes Roll complicates matters, but there are steps you can take to build a case for your Cherokee ancestry. It's important to check information yourself rather than relying on assumed knowledge.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of successfully proving your Cherokee ancestry. Remember, every piece of documentation and every detail uncovered can contribute to your family's authentic historical narrative.

Keywords: Cherokee Ancestry, Dawes Roll, Alternative Rolls