San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation

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San Carlos indians on work year 1886

The San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation, in southeastern Arizona, United States, was established in 1871, and is home to a conglomeration of Apache tribes relocated there from traditional Apache homelands in Arizona and New Mexico. The 2000 census reported the reservation population at 9,385. Its largest communities are San Carlos and adjacent Peridot.

San Carlos Reservation is one of the poorest Native American communities in the United States, with the median annual household income being approximately $14,000. About 60% of the people live under the poverty line, and one-fourth of the active labor force is unemployed.

1 Geography
2 History
3 Attractions
4 References
5 External links

[edit] Geography

Location of the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation in Graham County and the State of Arizona.

Encompassing 2,910.707 square miles (7,538.698 km²) of land area, the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation lies in northern Graham, southeastern Gila, and eastern Pinal Counties. It is the tenth-largest Indian reservation in land area. Landscape of the area varies considerably, including desert, alpine meadows, and Ponderosa Pine forest. Its largest community is San Carlos. Fort Apache Indian Reservation is directly north of the San Carlos Reservation.

[edit] History

San Carlos was, for a time, home to the legendary Apache chief Geronimo. The San Carlos Apache Tribe is the history of their native people. They have their ceremonies in the mountains or the Holy grounds. They speak their minds about their own culture; they are the voice of the people. The Apaches learn their own language, and sing their own language. The elders sometimes speak the Apache language to the toddlers so when they grow up they speak the language that the elders have taught them. The San Carlos Apache give prayers to their young ones.

[edit] Attractions

The Apache Gold casino, owned and operated by the San Carlos Apache Nation, offers gaming, dining and lodging.

The San Carlos Apache Culture Center tells the stories and history of the Apache people.

Hunting, fishing, boating, camping, birdwatching and nature study are all popular on the scenic 2900-square mile reservation. All of these activities require a tribal permit, available from the San Carlos Recreation and Wildlife department, and at local convenience and sporting-goods stores.