The Tillamook Tribe: An Overview of Their Forced Relocation and Legacy
At the dawn of the 19th century, the ancestral homeland of the Tillamook people was along the lush coast of what is now Oregon. However, early in the 1850s, under the pressure of federal policies intended to assimilate Native American tribes into American society, the Tillamook, as well as 26 other tribes with a combined population of over 1,000 individuals, faced a devastating reality: they were forced to leave their ancestral lands and relocate to a new reservation.
Forced Relocation and Siletz Reservation
By 1856, the federal government had made a decision that would change the course of the Tillamook people forever. In a move that marked the beginning of their struggle to preserve their identity and cultural heritage, the Tillamook and 26 other tribes—each speaking a different language or dialect—were forcibly enticed or coerced into relocating to the Siletz Reservation. This large-scale resettlement was part of the U.S. government’s policy of assimilation, which aimed to abolish indigenous cultures and integrate Native peoples into the dominant culture.
The Siletz Reservation, established in 1855, covered a significant portion of what is now Curry, Coos, and portions of Lincoln counties in Oregon. The reservation was chosen partially due to its proximity to the Columbia River, which served as a means of transportation for government officials and settlers. The federal government’s decision to relocate these tribes highlights the complex and often detrimental relationship between the United States government and Native American communities during the 19th century.
Tribal Descendants and the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
Fast forward to the present day, the Tillamook people and their descendants have come to be part of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. This tribe was created in 1855, primarily through the efforts of the Siletz Agency, which was established in 1855 to oversee the new reservation and the integration of the many tribes that had been brought together. The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians include several different tribes, with some of them being the Coos, Lower Umpqua, Siuslaw, Tenino, Molala, and Yamhill.
The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians continue to honor and preserve the traditions and heritage of their ancestors. Despite the challenges posed by relocation, they have maintained their cultural identity and continue to thrive both spiritually and socially. The tribe actively participates in various cultural and social programs, including storytelling, traditional dancing, and educational outreach programs, ensuring that the legacy of their ancestors is kept alive for future generations.
Legacy and Recognition
The legacy of the Tillamook people and their relocation to the Siletz Reservation is a significant chapter in Oregon’s history. It serves as a poignant reminder of the long and often painful process of cultural assimilation and the struggle for sovereignty and self-determination.
Today, the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians are recognized not only for their cultural significance but also for their contributions to the community. Through a combination of traditional practices and modern initiatives, they continue to thrive and preserve their unique identity. Their ongoing efforts highlight the resilience of their people and the enduring significance of their cultural heritage.