The Absentee-Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma is one of three federally recognized Shawnee tribes. The tribe originated from Shawnee groups who, in the 19th century, migrated westward to avoid colonial encroachment. By 1832, the U.S. government had removed remaining Shawnees from the Ohio River Valley to Kansas. The Absentee Shawnee gained their name because their groups were not present at the signing of the 1854 treaty for a Kansas Reservation. Eventually, they settled in Indian Territory, now Oklahoma, with the Big Jim Band and White Turkey Band establishing communities in different regions. The tribe was officially organized under the Oklahoma Indian Welfare Act of 1936 and continues to uphold its cultural traditions today.
Interesting Facts:
The Absentee Shawnee Tribe is composed of two bands: the Big Jim Band and the White Turkey Band.
The tribe operates its own constitution and is governed by an elected five-member Executive Committee.
The Absentee Shawnee Tribe is one of the three federally recognized Shawnee tribes in Oklahoma.
What is the tribe's most recent population census?
As of June 30, 2024, the Absentee Shawnee Tribe had 4,675 enrolled members. Approximately 74% of these members reside in Oklahoma.
What is the language spoken by the tribe?
The Absentee Shawnee Tribe speaks the Shawnee language, a Central Algonquian language historically spoken across the Eastern United States, including areas of Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania. Today, it is primarily spoken in parts of central and northeastern Oklahoma. The language is polysynthetic, allowing for complex word formations, and is closely related to other Algonquian languages like Mesquakie-Sauk and Kickapoo. Despite its rich linguistic features, Shawnee is considered severely threatened, with approximately 100–200 speakers remaining, most of whom are older adults.
Is there a language revitalization program in the tribe?
Yes, the Absentee Shawnee Tribe has initiated efforts to revitalize the Shawnee language. Programs include language classes for children and adults, development of teaching curricula, and online resources like dictionaries and lesson series. Elders and fluent speakers, such as George Blanchard Sr., have been instrumental in teaching and promoting the language within the community.
Does the tribe have any Christian history?
Yes, the Absentee-Shawnee Tribe does have a Christian history that began in the 1800s with the arrival of Protestant missionaries, especially Methodists and Baptists, who followed the tribe during their forced relocation to Indian Territory (now Oklahoma). These missionaries set up churches, schools, and mission stations aimed at teaching both the gospel and English literacy. While many tribal members maintained traditional spiritual beliefs, others embraced Christianity, often blending it with their cultural practices. One significant figure was Thomas Wildcat Alford, a tribal leader and Christian who translated parts of the Bible into Shawnee and advocated for both education and faith. Over time, Christian churches became part of many Shawnee communities, leaving a lasting spiritual and cultural impact.
Is there a Bible in the language of the tribe?
Yes, Thomas Wildcat Alford, a native Shawnee speaker, translated the four Gospels of the New Testament into Shawnee in 1929. His translation utilized a phonemic orthography he developed, which accurately represented Shawnee sounds. Although his original work lacked a glossary and parallel English text, recent editions have incorporated these features to make the translation more accessible.
Are there any Bible translation efforts in the tribe?
Beyond Alford's translation, there have been limited efforts to translate additional portions of the Bible into Shawnee. The focus has primarily been on preserving and teaching the existing translations, as well as revitalizing the language through educational programs and resources. These efforts aim to maintain the linguistic and cultural heritage of the tribe.
Are there any gospel hymns in the tribe’s language?
Yes, gospel hymns in the Shawnee language have been compiled and are included in collections such as "American Indian Tribal Hymns," which features hymns from various Oklahoma tribes, including the Absentee Shawnee. These hymns reflect the integration of Christian musical traditions with the Shawnee language and are used in religious and cultural gatherings.
