Native American Tribes in Virginia - Virginia Indians Today

Virginia Indians Today

As of 2010, eight tribes have been recognized by the Commonwealth of Virginia that are related to the Powhatan paramountcy. The state also recognizes the Monacan Nation, the Nottoway, and the Cheroenhaka (Nottoway), who were never part of the paramountcy. Descendants of several other Virginia Indian and Powhatan-descended tribes still live in Virginia and other locations. Several groups located in Virginia who do not have state recognition are seeking it.

The population of Powhatan Indians today is estimated to be about 8,500-9,500, though only about 3,000-3,500 are tribal members; the Monacan Nation's tribal membership is about 2,000. There are several requirements to obtain tribal membership. Generally, members must pay dues; attend tribal meetings (which are usually monthly in the "home" areas); volunteer to serve as a tribal officer when asked; help to put on tribal events; belong to the tribal church (if one exists and they are able); teach their children their people's history and pass on traditional crafts; volunteer to represent the tribe at the Virginia Council on Indians, the United Indians of Virginia, or at other tribes' powwows; answer questions they may be asked about the tribe from outsiders; speak at engagements for civic or school groups; and live in a good way, so as to best represent their tribe and Native Americans in general. Most Indian tribes maintain some traditions from before the time of European settlement, and are keen to pass these traditions on. Although Indians are also highly involved in non-native culture and employment, they regularly engage in activities for their individual tribes, including wearing regalia and attending powwows, heritage festivals, and tribal homecomings. Individuals try to maintain a balance between elements of their traditional culture and their other, non-traditional environments.

The Pamunkey and the Mattaponi have maintained their reservations from the 17th century treaties. These two tribes continue to make their yearly tribute payment to the Virginia governor, as stipulated by the 1646 and 1677 treaties. Every year around Thanksgiving they hold a ceremony to pay the annual tribute of game, usually a deer, and pottery or a "peace pipe."

Today some Virginia Indians say they feel like they live in two worlds. During the week they work jobs among the majority culture, and on weekends they are engaged in activities for and with their individual tribes. These tribal activities may include wearing regalia to represent their people at pow wows, heritage festivals, or tribal homecomings. For such individuals, their lives are about the balance between the Indian world and the non-Indian world.