The Original Natives of Oklahoma: A Comprehensive Overview

Oklahoma, a state rich in Native American history, has a complex and fascinating mix of indigenous and emigrant tribes. This article explores the original natives and their origins, highlighting key tribes such as the Caddo, Wichita, Kiowa, Osage, and others, who lived in the region before the arrival of the Choctaw, Chickasaw, Muscogee, Seminole, and Cherokee.

The Caddo Tribe

The Caddo were originally from southeast Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. They are a unique group known for their complex social and political structures. Today, many Caddo descendants still reside in this region. The Caddo Nation is based near Binger, Oklahoma, serving as a vital part of the state's Native American community.

The Wichita Tribe

Related to the Pawnee, the Wichita were known to have settled in present-day Kansas, Texas, and southwestern Oklahoma. Significantly, my ashes will be scattered from Mount Scott in southwestern Oklahoma, which holds cultural and historical significance for the Wichita people. The Wichita Tribe has a presence near Anadarko in Oklahoma.

The Kiowa Tribe

Originating from the Black Hills of the Dakotas, the Kiowa migrated south to Oklahoma. Their chief, Quanah Parker, was born along Elk Creek in Kiowa County, south of Hobart. His story is detailed in the book 'Frontier Blood: The Saga of the Parker Family' by Ella Powell Exley, which provides an invaluable insight into Kiowa history. Interestingly, the Kiowa are related to Ute, Paiute, and Shoshone tribes, and even some Aztec ancestors.

The Osage Tribe

Another Siouan tribe, the Osage, lived in northeastern Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Missouri. Conflicts existed between the Osage and Kiowa, with the Osage once massacring many Kiowa in the Wichita Mountains. This event is still commemorated today at 'Cut-throat Gap', a historical site in the area.

Other Tribes of Note

Several other tribes made sporadic appearances in the region on raiding parties or for trade. Notable mention includes the Navajo, who raided the Comanche, as evidenced by the Navajo Mountains in Kiowa and Jackson Counties. The Quapaw, Tonkawa, and Southern Cheyenne are also part of this diverse group, though their presence was not as continuous as others.

Indigenous and Emigrant Tribes

While this article focuses on the original natives, it's worth noting that many indigenous tribes were forcibly moved to Oklahoma under the Indian Removal Act. Tribes such as the Choctaw, Chickasaw, Muscogee, Seminole, and Cherokee were among those relocated to Indian Territory, which later became Oklahoma. This relocation brought significant changes to the landscape and indigenous populations.

Modern Tribes in Oklahoma

Today, the indigenous tribes in Oklahoma continue to thrive and maintain their traditions. The Caddo, Wichita, Kiowa, and Osage, among others, have reservations and communities in Oklahoma. These tribes actively preserve their cultural heritage through various means, including historical research, cultural festivals, and community events.

Conclusion

The history of Oklahoma is deeply intertwined with its Native American tribes. Each tribe has a unique story, with significant contributions to the region's culture and heritage. By understanding these tribes, we gain valuable insights into the rich and complex history of Oklahoma.