Colorado River Indian Lands
Location:
The Colorado River Indian Lands cover 225,995 acres in Arizona and 42,696 acres in California. Ninety miles of Colorado River shoreline runs north and south through the Indian Lands and includes the town of Parker. Currently, there is a population of 3,1000. The Chemehuevi, Mohave, Hopi and Navajo are included in the population and all share the land.
History:
The Mohave Indians have lived along the Colorado River for centuries. They farmed the river bottoms and harvested plants in the surrounding area. In the summer, their homes were made of branches and during the winter they built pit style homes partially underground.
On the other hand, the Chemehuevi roamed the length of the Colorado River. They did not settle down. The Chemehuevi were hunters and gathers.
Both the Mohave and Chemehuevi Indians have fought each throughout history and were considered the “river people.” The Hopi and the Navajo originally came from Northern Arizona, but later moved down to this area along the river.
Charles Debrille Poston was the first Indian Superintendent for Arizona. In 1864, he chose the site for Arizona’s second Indian Land. The Colorado River Indian Land was established in March 1865 covering 225,995 acres in La Paz County, Arizona.
Today, all four Indian tribes share the land.
Indian Arts:
The Mohave Indians are known for their handicrafts, such as pottery, necklaces, belts, dolls, cradleboards and rattles. The Chemehuevi are known for their baskets and powwows.
Attractions:
The Colorado River Indian Tribal Museum and Library is located near the town of Parker. The museum’s mission is to preserve and show the four tribal Indian heritages living on the Colorado River Indian Land. There is a gift shop offering the handicrafts.
The land is home to the Blue Water Casino.
Indian Day Celebration September
All Indian Rodeo December
