| Total population |
|---|
| 71 (in 1992)[1] |
| Regions with significant populations |
| United States ( Nevada) |
| Languages |
| Religion |
|
traditional tribal religion, previously Ghost Dance |
| Related ethnic groups |
|
other Southern Paiute tribes, Chemehuevi |
The Las Vegas Tribe of Paiute Indians of the Las Vegas Indian Colony is a federally recognized tribe of Southern Paiute Indians in southern Nevada.[1]
Contents |
The Las Vegas Paiute Tribe has a reservation, the Las Vegas Indian Colony, at in Clark County, Nevada. The reservation was first established in 1911 and today is 3,850 acres (15.6 km2) large. In 1992, 52 tribal members lived on the reservation and 71 people were enrolled in the tribe.[1]
The tribe belongs to the Tudinu band of Paiutes, known as the "Desert People." Their traditional territory is along the Colorado River region of southeastern Nevada, southeastern California, and Utah.[2] Non-native settlers moved into the area, displacing the local tribe. Settlement increased after the completion of a railroad into the area and establishment of Las Vegas, Nevada. A local rancher owner, Helen J. Stewart deeded 10 acres (40,000 m2) in downtown Las Vegas to the Paiutes on December 30, 1911, creating the Las Vegas Indian Colony.[2]
The tribe ratified their constitution and bylaws on July 22, 1970. They were federally recognized, under the Indian Reorganization Act. In 1983 Congress returned 3,800 acres (15 km2) of land at the Snow Mountain Reservation to the tribe.[2]
The Las Vegas Tribe of Paiute Indians currently operates a minimart,[3] two smoke shops;[4] a health and human services program; the Las Vegas Paiute Police Department, with 10 law enforcement officers and the Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort, located northwest of Las Vegas.[5] The tribes hosts the Annual Snow Mountain Pow Wow every Memorial Day weekend.[6]
The tribal headquarters is located in Las Vegas, Nevada. The tribe is governed by a seven-person tribal council.[1]