The Lumbee people of North Carolina have a rich history and culture that has been largely unknown to the rest of the world. For too long, this vibrant community has been left out of the narrative of the United States and its history. This article seeks to uncover the Lumbee people’s history and culture, and invites readers to learn more about this unique and vibrant community.

The Lumbees are a Native American tribe located in Robeson County, North Carolina. They are believed to be descended from the Cheraw, Coree, and Pamlico tribes, and also from European settlers. The Lumbee have a distinct language, culture, and history, and their identity has been shaped by their unique heritage.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Lumbee people experienced intense discrimination and prejudice. The US government refused to recognize them as a Native American tribe, leaving the Lumbee without access to many of the benefits and rights of other tribes. However, in 1956 the US Congress passed the Lumbee Act, which recognized the Lumbee as a Native American tribe.

Today, the Lumbee community is vibrant and strong. They have a deep connection to their culture and history, and are proud of their heritage. The Lumbee are actively involved in preserving their traditions and culture, and sharing their story with the world. This article seeks to uncover the Lumbee’s story, from their origins to their modern-day experience, and invites readers to explore this unique and vibrant community.

Native American Lumbees: Uncovering the History and Culture

Origins of Lumbees

The Lumbee people are Native Americans living in Robeson County, North Carolina. They are one of the largest Native American groups east of the Mississippi River, with an estimated population of 55,000. The Lumbee have a long and complex history, with origins in the Tuscarora tribe, the Siouan-speaking Cheraw and Coree tribes, and some Scottish settlers. The Lumbee were first recognized by the state of North Carolina in 1885, and were finally given federal recognition in 1956 by an act of Congress.

Culture of Lumbees

The Lumbee people have a rich culture and traditions that have been passed down through generations. The Lumbee language is a combination of several Native American languages, including Tuscarora and Siouan. Many Lumbee people are also fluent in English. Traditional Lumbee music is characterized by drums, rattles, and other traditional instruments, and is often accompanied by singing and dancing. The Lumbee also practice traditional crafts such as pottery, basket weaving, and wood carving.

Religion of Lumbees

The Lumbee people have a unique spiritual belief system. Most Lumbee are Christians, and many practice traditional Native American religions. The traditional religion is based on nature and the belief in a creator spirit, and includes the practice of traditional ceremonies, such as the Green Corn Dance. The Green Corn Dance is a ritual that has been passed down for generations and is held annually to celebrate the new harvest.

Lumbee Cuisine

The traditional Lumbee cuisine is based on the foods that were available to them in their traditional homelands. The diet is heavy on vegetables, with corn being the most important staple crop. Other traditional foods include beans, squash, and wild game such as deer and turkey. Fish and seafood are also important components of the Lumbee diet. The traditional cooking methods include boiling, baking, and roasting, as well as smoking and drying.

Lumbee Art

The Lumbee people have a vibrant art tradition that is based on their traditional culture and beliefs. Traditional crafts such as basket weaving, wood carving, and pottery are still practiced today. The Lumbee also have a long tradition of storytelling, which is an important part of their culture. In addition, the Lumbee have a vibrant music tradition that includes traditional instruments such as drums, rattles, and flutes.

Lumbee History

The Lumbee people have a long and complex history that dates back to the early 17th century. The first Lumbee settlers were members of the Tuscarora tribe, who were fleeing to North Carolina to escape European settlers in Virginia. The Lumbee were later joined by members of the Cheraw and Coree tribes, as well as some Scottish settlers. The Lumbee were first recognized by the state of North Carolina in 1885, and were finally given federal recognition in 1956 by an act of Congress.

Lumbee Identity

The Lumbee people have a strong sense of identity and pride in their heritage. They are proud of their unique language, culture, and traditions, which have been passed down through generations. The Lumbee are a diverse and vibrant community, and they are committed to preserving their traditions and culture for future generations.

Lumbee Education

The Lumbee people have a strong commitment to education. The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina operates a number of schools, including two post-secondary institutions, the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and the Robeson Community College. The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina also provides educational opportunities for its members, including scholarships and educational resources.

Lumbee Artifacts

The Lumbee people have a long and rich history, and many artifacts have been discovered in their traditional homeland. These artifacts include pottery, tools, weapons, and jewelry, as well as other items of cultural significance. These artifacts are important in helping to preserve the Lumbee culture and tradition for future generations.

Lumbee Today

Today, the Lumbee people are a vibrant and thriving community. They are committed to preserving their culture and traditions, while also embracing modern ways of life. The Lumbee are active in their communities and are dedicated to serving their people and their homeland. The Lumbee are proud of their heritage, and they are determined to ensure that their culture and traditions are preserved for future generations.

We hope this blog has been informative and illuminating on the history and culture of the Lumbee people. We thank you for taking the time to explore this important topic, and we wish you all the best in your further studies of Native American culture and history.

We also encourage you to support the Lumbee people and their ongoing struggle for recognition and rights. Please consider donating to a local Lumbee cause or organization, or volunteering your time and knowledge to help promote their cause.

Thank you for visiting and learning about the Lumbee people. We look forward to hearing more from you on this important topic.