Am I Native American? Native American Ancestry & Genealogy

Am I Native American? Native American Ancestry & Genealogy

Many people in the US and Canada have at least one Indian ancestral line in their family.  Lots of people grew up hearing the family legend about a family member that was Native American.

Proving that legend to be true or false can be tough.

We have some steps and resources to help you answer the question, “Am I Native American?” Keep reading.


Please note that finding Native American ancestry does not mean you are an enrolled tribal member.  


How to Find Your Native American Ancestry

Gather Information

The process of finding your Native heritage can take years.  Gather and document all the information you can!



Become a collector of information – collect stories from family members, find birth and death certificates, and look for family Bibles. Even if you think it might not be pertinent to the search up front, set it aside anyway. 

Then document everything. Write it all down. Days, weeks, or months from now you may not remember every detail of the story your great-aunt told you. So write it all down.

Not all the stories you hear from family may be true or correct, but you want to find as many leads as you can to start your search. You may hear from your grandmother that your relatives were from the Cherokee tribe. So many families have that as part of their family lore. Sometimes Cherokee may not be the right tribe – it may just be a name they knew.  


GET STARTED – Free Email Series – How to Trace Your Family History


Native American DNA Testing

DNA testing can be another tool to help you gather information. Test results are not legal proof of Native heritage, however.  

The test can give you some idea about where in your family tree your Native heritage is rooted. For example, if your test comes back and you are 25% Native, then it is likely that your grandmother/grandfather was full blood. On the other hand, if it comes back less than 10% you know that you'll need to go back several generations to find the source of your Native heritage.


Building A Family Tree

Now it is time to assemble all the information you have into a family tree. This is how you can document your direct Native lineage.  

There are many tools to help you create this or you can just use old-fashioned pen and paper.

A lot of people ask, “What is the best DNA test for Native Americans?” I recommend using Ancestry.com. They offer a 14-day free trial.  For most people, this will be enough time to build out a family tree.

Ancestry® Free Trial

I also have a free email guide that takes you step by step on how to use Ancestry.com's family tree builder.  

Free Email Lesson – How To Build Your Family Tree With Ancestry.com


Which Native American Tribe Are You From?

Tracing your family history can be very challenging. Find your tribe can be even more daunting. 

As I mentioned earlier, if your family is several generations removed from your Native ancestors, knowledge of the exact tribe may have been lost or incorrectly remembered over the years.

Knowing where your family lived at different times and knowing all the surnames can be tools to help you find the tribe.  

We have a whole page here about finding your tribe: How Do I Find Out What Tribe I Am From?


Applying for Tribal Enrollment

For many people just tracing the family tree is their goal. For others enrolling in a Native American tribe is their ultimate goal.

Each tribe has its own requirements and process for enrollment. In addition, each tribe has its own restrictions on blood quantum.  

Be sure you understand the difference between tribal enrollment and a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood.


Good luck on your quest to find your family history!

Join our Facebook Group for Native American Family History.  Talk with others looking for their history!


Resources

Native American Genealogy Articles on PowWows.com


Ancestry.com – Native American Genealogy

Whether you’re trying to dig into the truth about that old family story of a distant ancestor who was a Native American or simply taking on a fascinating new hobby, genealogy can be very challenging. Native American genealogy is complex and multi-tiered, and you need the right tools and resources to find what you're looking for. 

This is particularly true for those with a Native American heritage, where records are often decentralized, sometimes poorly kept, and other times just straight-up impossible to find.

The good news?

While there will always be challenges researching your family tree and its Native American history as you go further back in time, it has never been this easy to get the information you need when researching your family’s Native American past.

Ancestry.com lets you search specifically for various ancestral criteria. Search by name, tribe, mixed blood, citizenship, tribal enrollment and more in one place, using the world’s most complete records.

Start your trial now!

Last Updated on January 4, 2024 by Paul G


176 Comments on “Am I Native American? Native American Ancestry & Genealogy”

  • Avatar for Pryce

    Pryce

    says:

    I’m adopted. My father, who is enrolled w/ the Rosebud Sioux tribe, has completely disappeared after getting out of prison and he wasn’t on my birth certificate (I’m not convinced it was even a consensual relationship). I’ve tracked down the family and they agree they know of me, but without his signature for paternity there is no proof and no official access to my cultural history. It’s honestly been more lonely and miserable as an adoptee to get this far than if I’d never learned anything at all. But even if I don’t get to bully my way back into my family, I’m firm in my belief that my connection to the earth is key to my spiritual healing and sobriety. I just wish I had family or elders to turn to. I’m estranged even from my adoptive family.

  • Avatar for Spyder Auto

    Thanks for sharing your story. It is so nice!

  • Avatar for Michelle Smith

    Michelle Smith

    says:

    Thank you for sharing. There is a lot of information I did not know.

  • Avatar for Ray

    Ray

    says:

    My mom is full blood and my dad is partially native american we do not know what other part he is, but I know for sure I am native american.

  • Avatar for Laura

    Laura

    says:

    Both my father and I took the Ancestry DNA test and it showed that we had Indigenous Americas DNA. My father’s was 53% and mine was 25%. The Indigenous people around the area where his ancestors were from are the Aztec and the Hopi.

  • Avatar for Angie Mendoza Ortiz

    Angie Mendoza Ortiz

    says:

    My father recently passed away. He had the most beautiful skin tone and gorgeous golden brown eyes. My father spoke of his mother being native american, but we could never confirm that. His parents were pretty bad at keeping up with their lineage and when they were alive, i was too young to ask any questions. Before my father passed, he and I took a DNA test through Ancestry and Genomelink. My father was almost 90% Indigenous Native American and I am 69%. That is a pretty high percentage. How can I trace my true linage and identify legal who I truly am? If I can get my true identity, then my children and grandchildren can know who we are and learn more about our people and traditions of our ancestors to be past down to the next generations????

  • Avatar for franklin archambault

    I did a DNA test and found out that I am 76% and most is INCA fancy that so the stories about the Indians coming over a land bridge is false . As for me, I am an enrolled ASSINIBOINE from the Ft. Belknap rez. in Montana what a surprise though, and like the stories say we came from the south

    • Avatar for Stormy

      Stormy

      says:

      I saw that you were from Fort Belknap, Montana, and you listed Assiniboine. I don’t suppose you would know any of the what are you doing Moccasin family.
      I lived on that reservation for a month. The man I was with was looking for his family and we found them completely by accident. at a powwow happened to be going on that weekend. Carmen moccasin is his cousin last I knew she had two children, a boy and a girl. Anyway, I was just wondering you don’t hear that very often for Belnap that is.
      It was approximately 12 to 14 years ago. but at that time his aunt was domestic violence, counselor, and I believe he had two or three tribal elders, on the tribal council.
      I look forward to hearing from you!

  • Avatar for Candice Gaynel Copeland

    Candice Gaynel Copeland

    says:

    I think it worth mentioning that Familysearch.com is also a good research source and it is free, unlike ancestry.

  • Avatar for Gabriel Bays

    I am Yowlumne Yokut of California. This is the oral history I was given as a child. We are the descendants of the Maya…When the people of the Yucatan moved their empire North. They came by the way of the Gulf of Mexico. They paddled to the Mississippi River. Then they went North along the Mississippi River Valley all the way to the Great Lakes Region. They came this route to avoid conflict with their neighbors and brothers the Aztec. That is why when asked the people of the Great Lakes area were asked, which people are you? They answered… We are the Meshicans, the Michigans, the Mexicans. Then they came West. All the way to the Pacific Ocean. We are the sons and daughters of Meshac. The brother to Embednago. Brother to Shadrac. The brother to Daniel. We are the neighbors to the People of Judah. In its true Hebrew name, Utah… The neighbors of the Utes… The Jutes… The Jews.. We are a tribe of Hebrews. We have been singing the true name of God for countless generations. Hey Yah Way..! Hey Yah Way..! Hey Hey Yah Way..! The true name of God… Or creator. We are the people who took to the rest of the world, civilization, agriculture. They are the architects of the temples around the world. Before any pyramids appeared in Egypt our temples were standing. Because it wasn’t angels with wings who walked with God… It was Indians with feathers…

    • Avatar for BREAK THE CYCLE

      BREAK THE CYCLE

      says:

      Absolutely beautiful

  • Avatar for Cindy W

    Cindy W

    says:

    Thanks Paul,
    I used 23andme and got NO native American at all. I downloaded it to gedmatch.com and it shows there. This service was since sold to law enforcement. I don’t worry b/c I’m fairly law abiding (driving the speed limit????meh! not usually.)

  • Avatar for davidscottmayes

    davidscottmayes

    says:

    i know that i am cherokee.i hav e proof of this.i am tracing my hertiage on the website http://www.myhertiage.com.and i have found my 4th cousin 1 removed and her name is mahala jane jones.and i know something about her life.

  • Avatar for mshahid

    mshahid

    says:

    Acknowledges for paper such a beneficial composition, I stumbled beside your blog besides decipher a limited announce. I want your technique of inscription.. Anthony Scott Dietrich

  • Avatar for Monica Lucero

    Monica Lucero

    says:

    I was told we are from the Mescalero Apache tribe on my dad’s side. I would like to know how I can or if I can register.

  • Avatar for Calum

    Calum

    says:

    informative and interesting, it’s great

  • Avatar for Ariel

    Ariel

    says:

    Nice one, keep posting great content! 

  • Avatar for Shawn

    Shawn

    says:

    Very interesting!

  • Avatar for Neil

    Neil

    says:

    That is wonderful

  • Avatar for Business Directory

    Very cool! Having a direct ancestor on the Dawes Final Roll is a requirement for citizenship in the Cherokee Nation. There is no blood quantum requirement.

  • Avatar for Tree Service Boulder

    Awesome, but I don’t think I’m Native American at all haha! Nice to know though.

    • Avatar for Emma Wallace

      Same here. I was told their was Indian heritage growing up. But no. My mom always said “if you do not straighten up she was going to send me to the reservation. My blood may not be. But in my heart I feel I am. I do not want to affend anyone. I hold all in high regard. Sometimes I wish I could be adopted, but then, I am in my 60s.

      • Avatar for Cindy W

        Cindy W

        says:

        See my comment C Whipple

  • Avatar for site

    site

    says:

    Cool! Im excited to know my origins too!

  • Avatar for Cleaning a House

    Very interesting. I dont think I am Native American

  • Avatar for Round Rock Contractor

    I have always wondered about this. However I have no information about my background.

  • Avatar for Pool Cleaning

    Definitely not Native American but I enjoyed reading this article!

  • Avatar for www.printernotprinting.com

    I’ve got this from one of the parties I attended recently and it has been a great experience for me.

  • Avatar for Dallas Hood Cleaning

    We had one of our employees took this test. It was really helpful for him and our company’s outreach program.

  • Avatar for Diana Leanne Roberts-Elza

    Diana Leanne Roberts-Elza

    says:

    Great article, very useful!

  • Avatar for Sylvia Varelas

    Sylvia Varelas

    says:

    If there’s any record in the census, you can find them in famillysearch.org. It’s free and they have enlistment records, baptism, marriage and census.

  • Avatar for Sam T.

    Sam T.

    says:

    Dan led me here and it’s definitely something I have to consider. But I don’t think I’m connected to Native Americans in any way. But who knows?

  • Avatar for nikola tesla

    Having read this I believed it was very enlightening.
    I appreciate you spending some time and effort to put this article together.
    I once again find myself spending way too much time both reading and commenting.
    But so what, it was still worthwhile!

  • Avatar for Tricia Armour

    Tricia Armour

    says:

    My uncle who is now deceased (and had no kids to ask) was said to have proven his heritage and tribe before he passed. unfortunately, I believe the info is now u available to us. Is there a registry or list to check for his name…

  • Avatar for Buddy Wayne leeson

    Buddy Wayne leeson

    says:

    I would like to find out about my mother’s father and my dads mother , I was told that both were full blood chawktaw and chickasaw now I’m not sure of my grand mother’s name other than my dad told me is gupie Morgan as for my grand father his birth name is Benjamin Franklin Byrd both are from Oklahoma but not sure of what area could please help me

  • Avatar for domainindustry.Us

    I keep listening to the reports lecture anout receiving boundless online grant applications so
    I have been looking around for the bwst site
    to get one. Could you tell mee please, where could i acquire some?

  • Avatar for Crystal

    Crystal

    says:

    Hi my great grandma was kidnaped by Mexicans and she told my mom she’s Indian and that she was lil when it happens I would like to find out what kind of Indian I am can u help

  • Avatar for DOLORES RAMIREZ

    I recently found out that my Greandfather was an 100% American Indian. My mother and father both rn in San Antonio, Texas. Fathers last name is Ramirez, mothers last name Flores. How can i get a lead to my ancetors . What are the names of American Indian tribes from San Antonio, Texas?

    • Avatar for Lisa Huddleston

      Lisa Huddleston

      says:

      My 3rd great grandmother was Shawnee in the Ohio Valley region. Can I be a part of the tribal people?

      • Avatar for Dan Adams

        Dan Adams

        says:

        Hi Lisa – you may know by this time; but you have a Roll number contact the Shawnee or Eastern Shawnee in Oklahoma. Most Tribes will help if you have a Roll number linking to their Tribe.

  • Avatar for KAREN GRUNDY

    My mother, her father is one hundred percent Cherokee Indian, he had came from a tribe. While he was alive nobody thought to ask him what tribe he came from. My mother, her mother is eighty five percent Cherokee Indian, Caucasian and Irish. My Father, his father is eighty five percent Cherokee Indian, Caucasian and Black. My father, his mother is eighty five percent Cherokee Indian, Caucasian and Irish. When I was born I came into the world three weeks earlier before the due date, which almost caused me my life. The hospital that my mother was in, along with every hospital in the city was out of blood. nobody had any blood to give me. As much as the doctors hated to tell my mother this, they had to do their job. The doctors told my mother, “your baby is going to die, If we don’t find the blood to give to your baby.” My mother cried and pleaded to God through prayer, “God please don’t take my baby.” Mean while, As a Mexican family of twenty sat in the lobby waiting to see a loved one, they over heard my mothers cries, they asked the doctor, “why is the woman in the room there crying?” The doctor responded, “she just founded out that her baby is going to die, if we don’t find blood for her baby.” The Mexican family, responded, “no that baby doesn’t have to die.” The Mexican family, had suggested to the doctor, “Check our blood see if it’s clean and a match if so, give our blood to the baby, to save the baby’s life.” My mother stated to me, “The Mexican family, their blood was clean and definitely a match with yours Karen.” My parents and grandparents, before they had passed away stated, “Karen you’re at least ninety percent Cherokee Indian possibly more. Question: Do you think that the Mexican blood added to my ninety percent Cherokee Indian blood, makes me possibly a hundred percent Cherokee Indian? Also, could somebody please help me find out what tribe my grandfather came from. I would really appreciate it. Thank you all for your time, God Bless You All

  • Avatar for Samual

    Samual

    says:

    Thanks a bunch for sharin thius with all people you really recognise what you’re speaking about!
    Bookmarked. Kindly also visit my web site =).
    We may have a link change arrangement between us

  • Avatar for Lenceria novia

    If you desire to take a great deal from this paragraph then you
    have to apply such strategies to your won website.

  • Avatar for Fern Wilson

    Fern Wilson

    says:

    My Great Grandfathers family came to north Arkansas and the timing and route is the same as the trail of tears, have been told they were Cherokee sur name McDaniel, but DNA shows no native connection.
    My Granfather McCabe could talk Indian was raised on the reservation,was told his mother Mary Ellen
    Was Indian still does not show in DNA.

  • Avatar for Lee Stone

    Lee Stone

    says:

    I have run into a road block tracing my heritage on my Mama’s side. My granny was full blooded Cherokee but am unable to trace anything past her. She was adopted by Mcbrayers as a child but I don’t seem to be able to find any adoption records to find out her Cherokee name prior to the adoption…thus a dead end…any info on what to do in this situation would surely be helpful…thanks in advance

  • Avatar for Lourie G

    Lourie G

    says:

    Hello, I always knew that I had native, so I always looked at different tribes,then started to learn some Lakota, I always felt interested in the customs and etc. I have about 48% Native American in me. I just want to narrow, what group I am more likely to be connected to, just want to learn. Btw I really don’t know anything about my family, so websites and names won’t help at all. Only have Hispanics last names even though not that much Hispanic.

  • Avatar for Susan Degen

    Susan Degen

    says:

    Am wondering how to find tribe when I am adopted. My adopted family are registered Ste. St. Marie Chippewas. I have found my birth mothers name Oneida Moody born Henry Co. TN 1939. Her Mother LouLeslie Pearl Dotson born deep in Indian country. I took ancestry DNA shows me matching many with last name Moody . My DNA doesnt say any NA dna. But I was told my birth grandmother was full blood. My birthmom youngest of 13 kids. What to do when adopted?

  • Avatar for Terrysue

    Terrysue

    says:

    I have discovered that some that people that have Native American ancestors may not end up with the DNA. For example their sibling may have the N.A. genes but not them.

  • Avatar for Tonja Juarez

    Tonja Juarez

    says:

    Hi, My father was abandoned by his parent’s back in the 50’s and was adopted. His adopted mom told him that he had a large amount of Indian in his blood. The dark skin, eyes, nose, and black hair seem to make us think it’s probably true but we really don’t know. We know nothing about his birth parents or birth family. It was a closed adoption.
    I’m an adult now and would love to know what exactly I am. Am I Indian? and from what tribe? My father has lived his whole life not knowing the truth.

    Is there anything my dad or I can do to get some answers on who we are and where we come from?
    Could you please help lead us in the right direction for answers?

  • Avatar for Deborah LAMOUREUX

    My grandma, said the court that housed my native American history was burned down, it was in upstate new York

  • Avatar for Mike Cone

    Mike Cone

    says:

    Where do I start? I recently found out I’m 10% native from a tribe in southern arizona. No idea where to start.

  • Avatar for irene sliger

    irene sliger

    says:

    My name is Irene teri Campbell. My dad Victor Campbell was born on a Rez in South Dakota. Yankton Soiux. Can you help me find more.

  • Avatar for leona snyder

    leona snyder

    says:

    Please help me my name,is leona but my native name is little long feather and I don’t what to do to prove this. I would like help on going about this please

  • Avatar for Kay

    Kay

    says:

    My mom’s, Mom, my grandmother and her two sister’s were Chickasaw will I have Chickasaw DNA?

  • Avatar for Deloris Loggins Parrish

    Been trying to find this out all my life Thanks for the help.Will get back to you soon.

  • Avatar for Timothy Turner

    My great great great great grandma was princess morning star of the chaktaw? tribe Cherokee language! My great great great grandma was born on a reservation. Any ideas on how to fill in the blanks and help me find out what and where I came from?

  • Avatar for Timothy Turner

    Timothy Turner

    says:

    My great great great great grandma was princess morning star of the chaktaw?tribe Cherokee language! My great great grandpa was born on a reservation lost all research that I had do have some pics would like help in anyway to fill in the blanks and find out who and where I came from!

    • Avatar for Tina Cantrell

      Tina Cantrell

      says:

      My GREAT GREAT grandfather was palalto , My Granma Blackfoot, and Cherokee, I am not sure where to start it’s been something that I have longed to know since I was 5 yrs old…

  • Avatar for Patty luo

    Patty luo

    says:

    My great grandfather always said he was half Apache. Awnry old cus. Would I have a bit in me?

  • Avatar for Cindy Patterson Dodd

    Cindy Patterson Dodd

    says:

    I know my grandmother was bertie Mae moon patterson. Her parents were daisy miller and George moon. I cannot find out Georges birthday but daisy’s bate was around 1892 death around 1935. I was told that I I was part indian or black dutch. But it was cherokee blood? I am at a loss how to procede

  • Avatar for Paul G

    Paul G

    says:

    How can we help?

  • Avatar for Herman Thomas

    Herman Thomas

    says:

    I am still looking for my Indian people in oklahoma some one knows help me out — Herbert H. Thomas and Ruby Marquess

  • Avatar for Emily Harris

    Emily Harris

    says:

    I’m trying to do trace my ancestry. My great grand MA passed about 6 years ago and my grandma just pass about three years ago. I never never my grandfather, he passed before I was born.
    I was always told the I has both Apache and Cherokee.
    I have some of the names of my ancestors including birth dates and death, I just am at a stand still.
    If ANYONE would PLEASE help with this I would be greatly appreciated
    Thank you so much in advance.
    Emily Harris
    [email protected]

  • Avatar for conor mcguire

    conor mcguire

    says:

    what if i was adopted at birth and cannot find anything of my biological parents? truth is i was a child of rape which makes things even more difficult, i’m 61 years old and many would claim they see it…. more importantly is the ease of connection i always have with my brothers and sisters and the respect they have shown me in the depth of our spiritual path i have walked with them and alone as prescribed.i have to find a way to know or walk the path as a tribal adoptee too.i need some guidance! thank you….

  • Avatar for conor mcguire

    conor mcguire

    says:

    what if i was adopted and cannot find out anything about even my biological parents?

  • Avatar for mckenzie Wahwassuck

    mckenzie Wahwassuck

    says:

    my tribes are osage and Prairie Band Potawatomi but i was raised osage but i am more part of the Potawatomi tribe than osage.

  • Avatar for Kenneth Sawyers

    Kenneth Sawyers

    says:

    My great grandmother left the trail of tears and wound up with my great grandfather this is on my fathers side they say they have pictures. It is said that she refused any land because she would have had to swear on the bible and she said that was not her god. I would like to learn more of my heritage but am not worrying about becoming a card holder oh yes she was Cherokee

  • Avatar for Rebecca Salazar

    Rebecca Salazar

    says:

    My question is all I know is that my grandmother was Cheerokee Indian but we have no proof of it and I don’t know where to start at so if someone could help me out and tell me where to start I would really appreciate it thanks.

  • Avatar for Littlewing (Donna)

    Littlewing (Donna)

    says:

    I know I have Native American Blood running threw my vanes, I was given the name Littlewing by one of the Mi’kmaq Elders when I was young. (long story why)

    My Grandfather said we were Blackfoot, his Sister 97 years old now says we are Inuit, my Grandfathers daughter says we are Mi’kmaq… how can you tell which tribe or tribes you are from. My French side Originated in France, My Native side followed the Woolly Mammoth over to our Continent.
    Then they landed in Canada, Maine and Ma. I am not sure Ancestry com can help me. Is there another way I can find out. I know we are Native American/ French Descendants. I am Native American French Irish…I think i am asking is where can I get a DNA testing for which tribes my family is from for sure. I recently read that The DNA test does not say if you have Native American Heritage someone said it just tells you you have Heritage in the America’s …Heck we know this. I am looking for the DNA Testing that tells you truthfully what tribe you belong to.

    Thank You

  • Avatar for Dee Tetreault

    Dee Tetreault

    says:

    If u were told your linage is on your granmothers side but back many generations, is it best for a male to do the test or a female member or does it even matter?

  • Avatar for Bebe Ogden

    Bebe Ogden

    says:

    I paid to have dna done. I’ve always been told I had native American ancestors. My DNA results did not mention any native American.however, it mentions ancestors that have my DNA. One of those ancestors was chief George “Golden Hawk” Sizemore who was a Cherokee. How can he be an ancestor?

  • Avatar for Olivia

    Olivia

    says:

    Awesome article ! I was wondering if i could ask a question though ? My mothers father is estranged and my grandmother left him 2 months before she was born , the name she gave was Charles Jirdi .she also stated that he was at least half native and Vietnam vet … we later found an obituary from the Keewatin band of Ojibwa reservation stating he had passed …. all the information added up ( his school, where he was living and so on ) do you think my mother would be able to prove that she is Native with this ?

    Another point . my grandmother worked with project SAM in the twin cities , my mother was raised around pow-wows and she was a dancer .. yet every year she tells me when the powows are happening because she feels the drums this has happening since 30 years …( i know i know this doesn’t mean a thing but..) i too raised by my mother and grandmother sharing stories of helping and aiding the native community

  • Avatar for Jesse Garcia

    Are you my cousin from Bloomington Texas

  • Avatar for paul

    paul

    says:

    I would really like to know if I have any Native blood in me. Since childhood I am a follower of the spirit and culture with a never-ending interest. ‘If what one creates and what one is has a natural connection then I believe I could have Indian blood in me’. I’m somewhat an outsider to society, misunderstood since a child by my parents and abused that make me think that I’m other than a white man on a white cloud. Because that’s where my mind is; on a white cloud because I don’t know the internal truth to my path on Earth.

  • Avatar for Edward anthony Casias

    Edward anthony Casias

    says:

    my name is Edward Casias I was on line giving information on my family tree I have people all over my great grandfather was born in mora new mexico some on blue mountain Arizona Apache my grand mother was saquela full blooded so some lady said geranamo is my greatiest grandfather in my history class when I was young can you let me know what indian I am

  • Avatar for Arlene Burbage

    Arlene Burbage

    says:

    I know my Family is from the Cherokee tribe. That settled on Dutch Creek in Nelson county, Virginia They were Martin’s, Booths, can you help with any information ? I know that some of them were with the trail of tears.

  • Avatar for Derrie Davis

    Derrie Davis

    says:

    Hi My name is Derrie Davis. I am 1% Native Amwrican. I found out through ancestrydna.com. I did the DNA test. I also found out that my mom parerns are Indian. I saw it on the 1940 census. Is there a special DNA test that I can do to find out what type of Indian I am?

  • Avatar for Jessica

    Jessica

    says:

    This shawl was gifted to me. Does anyone recognize the pattern? I would love to know it’s origin.

    content://media/external/file/181755

  • Avatar for Wilcox

    Wilcox

    says:

    Any info on Wilcox Indian father was Indian died before I knew it he was Indian parents came from New York he lived in Iowa.

  • Avatar for joseph ray lewis

    joseph ray lewis

    says:

    To find out where my grandfather come from and who my grandmother come from and my other grandparents people

  • Avatar for Barbara swierczek

    Barbara swierczek

    says:

    My daughter s grandma ran from broading school change her name never used it again now has all timers how to find out wheres shes from ????? Help

  • Avatar for Toni

    Toni

    says:

    My great? Grand mother’s name was Nancy Horn She was stollen young and made to be a bondswoman which I picture to be same as slavery but with being of Indian blood. My Dad’s side of the family did not acknowledge we have any Indian Heritage they lived in MO and it is not to be mentioned. When I traced back from myself backwards I do find as far as her Living with what I was told was my grandparents but the list her as their niece. My grandfather Lemuel Norton Grandmother Prudential Savage..Since my Dad has never nor Aunts Or Uncle’s cared to speak of our Indian Heritage I seem to hit all kinds of blocks..My brother said my Grandfather (my Dads’s Dad) Told him once “He knows we are very interested and extremely proud of our Lakota Heritage and wanted my Brother and I to finally know we do have Lakota Heritage and He was sorry for denieghing as did the rest of the family it was just so hushed back in the day. My brother told me he showed him a picture of He in Indian attire and my great Grandmother in Full Indian attire also and then spoke to him in some of the Lakota words. The story that had been handed down about My Lakota Grandmother Nancy Horn was as I said she was stollen as a bonds woman, that One time when Jessy James came into town she was at a restraint/ General store having to work and everyone hid and told her not to let Jessy James and his gang know they hid in the Cellar..Jessy James and his gang got done eating and getting supplies the gave my Grandmother a silver dollar and told her not to tell them hidding from he and his gang..This story was told from one Aunt and never would talk to us again about it when we ask she denied telling us this..OK here is a long story but needed said to let all know I want to know more I’ve worked on this since I was a child and am now getting older my children and my Grand children want to know. My Children already Know about their Indian Heritage on their Dads side from Owl women married to William Bent..”Bents Fort” I want to tell them my side..I can’t spell it well but it is Oguala Lakota Rosebud Pineridge area anyone please direct me to my people’s side my Heritage

  • Avatar for Celso Morales III

    Celso Morales III

    says:

    My great grandmother’s Maiden name was Colorado, however as the story is told was adopted by our Mexican American Idigenous ancestors. The last living siblings out of 11 children, my Grandfather’s sister took the test from Ancestey.com resulting in 80% Native American Indigenous Indian. We have submitted a second test to DNA Tribes.com to break down that 80%. We know we are American Indigenous Indian. My Grandmother is Born Texan of Mexican parents her maiden name is Aléman, genealogy meaning, “of German Decent”. Yes, there Europeans in Mexico not just Spaniards. Needless to say, we are doing these test to close a door in our past with no need of Tribal Affiliation or registration. Our family understand the past of the First Nations and have surpassed any need to self Identify or needs for monies. We have family that are from the Oneida Tribe in Wisconsin. And, it’s nice to spend time on the reservation…..but assimilation and working hard is key. Our Red skin will NEVER WASH OFF, 500 NATIONS, TWO SPIRIT……..Shalom.

    • Avatar for Celso Morales III

      Celso Morales III

      says:

      One last tid-bit
      Most of all tribal affiliation had been lost long ago, with the killing and massacre of tribes. In addition, too borders, lack of documention and European Supremacy. Many of tall are going to have a real hard time of any enrollment. Just, enjoy Mother Earth and the Now.

  • Avatar for Edith

    Edith

    says:

    Hi not sure if anyone can help. My grandfather was put in a orphanage in ohio. They say he was half indian not sure of tribe or anything. My uncles went to check if any information on placing him in the orpahanage. He was adopted but there was a fire at orphanage and all paperwork was burned.is there any other place we could look. Thanks

  • Avatar for Rolland Longstreet

    Rolland Longstreet

    says:

    My father told me years ago that a g-grandmother of our family, with the last name Sturgeon, and a Cherokee would not register with the tribe as it was not good to be identified as Indian then. Would be interested if anyone knows of this name?

  • Avatar for Mark barron

    Mark barron

    says:

    Hi not sure what to do I have had DNA test done and I was wondering how to find out what tribe I come from the test showed that I was 49% native American can anyone help me

  • Avatar for Darryl Williams

    Darryl Williams

    says:

    I recently found out That I had a grandmother on my daddy side that was half CherokeeI have always known I had a full blooded great grandmother On my mother’s sideSo grandmother was also half. That grandaddy had some also what% amI?Darryl Williams

  • Avatar for Annette Betrand

    Annette Betrand

    says:

    Ruth, Lottie, Lee, and Annette Davis were Cherokee indians heritage born and raized in Seville. Florida

  • Avatar for Annette Betrand

    Annette Betrand

    says:

    my wifes ancestry is Cherokee Indian. Seeks to estanblish family tree for family out of Seville,Florida. Family of Betrand or Betran as is Mary McCloud Bethune.

  • Avatar for Adalberto De aquino

    Adalberto De aquino

    says:

    hi there my name is adalberto
    i just did my ancestry DNA and just trying to fine out what tribe my blood belongs seen i have 59% native indian blood , i don’t know if there any DNA test that i can do again to see what tribe i belong … thank you for your time .

  • Avatar for becva

    becva

    says:

    I need some help. My mother passed away the man who claims to be my father doesnt add up. When i was younger my.mother would take me on a reservation in california she had been with a native but never said he was my father. Im darker skinned & i doubt my so called father is my bilogical father. I really wanna find out if i do have native blood but i dont know where i go or what i do. I live in arizona right now im really trying to find out if i am native american

  • Avatar for Virginia Hayes

    Virginia Hayes

    says:

    Chief Dragging Canoe is listed as Cherokee and in my ancestry .com list of ancestors. This is on my fathers side of the family. and his father’s side of the family. The sur name of my father is Hayes/ Hays originated from Ireland to North Carolina then to South Carolina then to Alabama. My fathers, father died when he was only three and he does not know much about his family, but remembers a grandmother named Noni who he got to see often till he was about ten. Noni was said to be Cherokee. How can I find this information. Any help appreciated.

  • Avatar for terry free

    terry free

    says:

    Is there a dna test that can be taken to find out what tribe that my ancestors are from?

  • Avatar for Cynthia Rivard

    Cynthia Rivard

    says:

    Pretty! This has been a really wonderful article. Thanks for supplying this info.

    • Avatar for Marion Yarbrough

      My mother’s father was Haskell Martin and he was full-blooded Cherokee Indian as far as I know in my dad’s mother was full blood Sounsacie Myrtle Mahalia Yarbrough how do I find out where they’re from because they were From and if I am eligible to receive a check of benefits from the government in the state of Missouri I was researching my grandmother on my father side background a little bit but I don’t know much about them I know she was beautiful and had the most beautiful long black hair you’ve ever seen in my grandfather was so tall and he had all Indian markings the chicks everything can somebody please help me thank you I appreciate it

  • Avatar for Angelica juarez

    Angelica juarez

    says:

    I’m. so sorry. My 1st letter was not typed right. They tell me I’m Mashika Indian. I just don’t know I’m so confused my mother Hispanic. Her father is from Seguin Texas. my father was born in Webster Texas to my grandfather and grandmother when he was stationed in Houston in the army.my grandfather was Jose Raul Juarez was born in San Antonio tx. Grandma was Josephine Elias Cardenas. Is from Milwaukee IL. please help me I’m so confused

  • Avatar for Angelica juarez

    Angelica juarez

    says:

    I was told that I was Indian I don’t know which tries then I was told I was mushy containing which is a stick Indian I am also Hispanic my grandmother was is my father’s mother is Hispanic but also looks Indian her last name is what is marry my grandfather hope that my old one and my grandmother’s maiden name is Cardenas Elias her name was Josephine can someone please help me

  • Avatar for Micheal T. McCarol

    Micheal T. McCarol

    says:

    I’m 1/8 American Indian, I need to find my Indian roll number. How??????????????????

    • Avatar for Rebecca

      Rebecca

      says:

      1st you have to know what tribe you’re from. 2nd IF you were EVER enrolled. 3rd Make a call to the Bureau of Indian Affairs. If you were NEVER enrolled in a tribe the BIA WILL NOT have a roll number for you. If you know your tribe, you will have to call them and get an application for enrollment. Now it gets down to family trees. You HAVE to find the members of yor family who were enrolled. Documentation of THEIR ENROLLMENT. All this information has to lead in a direct line to you. Being 1/8 is either a grandparent who was 1/2 or a great grandparent who was FULL BLOOD. MOST tribes follow the matriarchal line,. Good luck, it’s a lot of work and acceptance into the tribe is not automatic.

  • Avatar for Rebecca Simmons Thompson

    Rebecca Simmons Thompson

    says:

    I am trying to learn how to find out about my family native American background. My great grand father was black foot and my grandmother was Cherokee. We are from Central Mississippi. It has been hard due to the fact i don’t know my relatives on my father side that are mainly Indians. A lot of them are decease. I have tried family search and they are not listed. Can anyone help?

  • Avatar for wayland

    wayland

    says:

    a lot good information on here. my situation is the same know family tree a couple pic a few stores about my gram-pap and my dad wouldn’t get served at bars in Nebraska and my mom was call a Nazi witch she was 3 year old when world war 2 was go on and no one would talk about it witch there all die now so there you go i got DNA TEST am doing that but where do i go for there.. it would be appreciate

  • Avatar for RJD1959

    RJD1959

    says:

    We just did a DNA test and found my adopted son is 27% Native American….this is his predominant ethnicity. Frankly, we are pleasantly surprised…Since we have little to no hope of knowing who his biological father is or tracing his tribe, is there anything I should do or could do….?

  • Avatar for Ernie

    Ernie

    says:

    I have 2 photos of relatives Eastern Cherokee and my mother taken in late 70’s. Unsure of names.

  • Avatar for jessica florez also known as jauriqui

    jessica florez also known as jauriqui

    says:

    I’m a apache native american from my father side I’m was adopted from a mexican family I need to know more we’re I’m from and more about were I came from…

  • Avatar for Dillon Lee Etheridge jr

    Dillon Lee Etheridge jr

    says:

    I need help to find out what kind of American Indian i have in me. I Heard that I am Cherokee but now i may be ipatche or something else diffrent I just don’t know.I know my great grandmas name on my dads dads side.

  • Avatar for Sabrina

    Sabrina

    says:

    Hello ! I’m Native American and on both sides of my family are white and indian … I’m looking for help ! My family say they are cheorkee but the cheorkee never came to nc I was told … So Im stuck between Cherokee and Tuscarora …. which one would it be ????? I have high cheek bones … My grandfather is a sampson and my grandma is a Strickland …. And my other grandma is hunt ….. All of them are from robco nc

    • Avatar for keba jackson

      keba jackson

      says:

      Strange I am an enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians which are located in Cherokee NC. It’s right over the Tennessee/NC state line. So not sure why you were told that info. If you have any questions about enrollment or need help or advice will help as much as I can.

    • Avatar for Rebecca Madison

      Rebecca Madison

      says:

      I am kin to a Rhoda Strickin. That’s as far as I get. Heard of Indian in the line

  • Avatar for Kelly Suire

    Kelly Suire

    says:

    My aunt told me her grandmother told her that her grandmother was a “Tahoe” indian from the Red River area. Some of the ancestors lived in Indian Bayou, LA during one of the censuses. Has anyone heard of this tribe, or can you point me in the right direction? I can’t even find a Tahoe tribe in Tahoe (it’s Washoe). I would like to me for genealogical/family purposes. Thank you.

    • Avatar for Kelly Suire

      Kelly Suire

      says:

      Have now been informed by an Uncle that he was told it was actually Cherokee. The name I have is either Lucretia or Chryssa Morgan and she had 3 children by JB Theall but no record of actual marriage (although he was married to 3 other woman). Does anyone have any information on this? Or know how I can find out? Thank you.

  • Avatar for Joseph Ray Lewis

    Joseph Ray Lewis

    says:

    The genealogy that I am looking for work .
    Show us that we are porch Creek from Montgomery Alabama.
    And that is from my grandfather and his from his parents.
    So how do I find out about the genealogy that was done by my father. And there is more and my grandmother as Indian and her from Texas.

  • Avatar for Joseph Ray Lewis

    Joseph Ray Lewis

    says:

    What I am trying to find out where I go to find out my genealogy.
    Because it has been done and it goes back a long ways..
    I know my family of… Lewis goes back to the Civil War.
    And too little big horn and further.
    But my father has passed on.
    And I am trying to find out where I can get copies of that genealogy that he had done.

  • Avatar for Rebecca Gonzalez

    Rebecca Gonzalez

    says:

    My brother did a DNA test.Found out we are 43 percent Indian. How do we find out what kind? Its like frustrating, not knowing were you come from. Mother and father are dead. Grandmother and Grandfather all dead. Can any one help me, We figured were from the Appatchie Nation.

  • Avatar for Michelle Law

    Michelle Law

    says:

    Well after hearing all my life that we have Native American ancestors, I had a DNA test run for Ancestry.com and it shows no evidence at all. So I must apologize for all the posts I’ve ever made claiming that I have/had any. I am disappointed to say the least but I have often said that I wanted to follow the truth so now I have it no matter what my desire to be is. I will always believe that we would have a better country and cleaner world if we had assimilated into the native culture instead of the forcing our way in and taking over. I do have native relatives through marriages in or family tree but if DNA tests are accurate, then no direct decedents. I’m still native at heart and spirit though. So mote it be.

  • Avatar for Lola Ruth Campbell

    Lola Ruth Campbell

    says:

    Hello my name is Lola I’m 31 and I’m trying to find any info on Patrick A Campbell of Denton Tax I was made aware his family might have been Cherokee Choctaw and Blackfoot Souix his dad Sydney L was born in Kansas I believe but grew up in Santa Cruz my Granny bonnie jean OK city I never knew my dad or his family any info would be a blessing… and to miss Loft on I would research your Anglo surnames there are a variety of spelling but all traceable to a country or clan or line of work your ancestor very well could have been a Melungeon which are a Portuguese and mulatto group found a lot in Louisiana and Appalachia famous Melungeon includes Elivis Presley and they tend to resemble Native or mulatto or both might research your Anglo surnames then Melungeon possibility and it might help your quest I agree ancestry .com is a crock and I’m trying to find my family I took basic info I got from them and I’m doing better on my own to a point gathering info to understand but its still hard..anyway any info on my dad’s family be a help and just incase any of my dads family sees this if your family was missing a cousin for 30 years I wasn’t missing just misplaced that’s all anyway thank you and God bless Sincerely Lolaruth

    • Avatar for sami

      sami

      says:

      Hello Lola,

      I have a long line of Campbells in my family tree. Do you know anymore names aside from Patrick? I too was told we are cherokee Choctaw and my great grandfather, Grandmother, and mother, myself and my daughters don’t fit the bill for white, though we are. My great grand father Wayland McKinney, has a mother name Nora Campbell,and she is where this all stems from. Apparently Nora, and other gals in the tree have a checkered past and some things may have been kept on the hush. My great grandfather has two white parents but looks native American (how does that happen). Anyhow, I have hit a dead end and took a break from my frustration. I hope we can help eachother somehow.

      Thanks.

      Sami.

      • Avatar for Rand Miller

        Rand Miller

        says:

        My grandmother married an Abner Campbell in East Prairie Missouri. Nickname Ab Campbell. His mother was remembered as Blackfoot. Perhaps. They had one child, Helen Marie Campbell.
        Are any of your Indian ancestors from this area of Missouri?

  • Avatar for Jamie K Oxendine

    Jamie K Oxendine

    says:

    Hello to all that have commented on this article and have asked many, many questions. Unfortunately we cannot answer all your questions about searching your genealogy. We hope that you use this article and other papers here at newpowwows.www.powwows.com to help you as a place to hopefully start. Here is a good one to read: https://www.powwows.com/2013/03/05/researching-native-american-heritage/

    Genealogy is a long and hard and often complicated task. Remember follow the search for all it may lead and if you are truly aware of what Native Nation make sure to contact them but be very nice friendly and cordial. You have to remember that Native American Nations get literally hundreds of calls, letters and e-mails about Native American Genealogy every day.

  • Avatar for gayle

    gayle

    says:

    I am. Ot in contact with my biological father but have been told I’m colville indian and apache. Now that I have my own family I’d like to know where we come from. Where do we start to track our heritage? Would you all recommend ancestry.com?

  • Avatar for angela carter

    angela carter

    says:

    hi, my name is angela carter. i have a great granny that was native american. my granny has a pic of her wearing those two long braids. i have been told all my life that we were part blackfoot. well after a lil research i found out where she lived in ohio…blackfoot was a general term given to many tribes. i googled some images of a random tribe, haliwa-saponi…and a pic of a lady that looks like she could be my granny’s twin. almost exactly. i tried to contact the tribe…no luck. i realize that many black indians were labeled as black on the birth records because they had dark skin…this makes it very difficult to find more info. i dont know what i should do next. her name was sadie boone (boone is her married name…i dont know her maiden name)i can find out from my uncle i believe. help please

    • Avatar for Cedric winn

      Cedric winn

      says:

      Hello Angela.
      I have a similar situation as my grandmother was a Blackfoot Indian, and I am trying to trace my heritage. You mentioned Sadie Boone, when I read that last name, I gasped because my mom’ s maiden name was Boone, and we have family members in NC with that name. Was sitting here wondering if there is some kind of relation. Please contact me if and when you get this email, [email protected]

      • Avatar for Rathahonni

        Rathahonni

        says:

        So sad,so many lost souls,i always heard the elders say Marry your own kind or your children won’t know who they are,sure was true advice.

  • Avatar for Anna S. Edwards

    Anna S. Edwards

    says:

    It has been a difficult road for all of us looking for information. I researched for years, never found anything. I do remember talking to my grandfather and grandmother and other relatives who told me of our Cherokee heritage. My grandmother was also a mixture of white and Indian, but not so sure which tribes. I live in Virginia and in the 1920 – 1930 era our Virginia Indians were destroyed on paper, and birth/death certificates were changed to either white or black. Many midwives were urged to write the records this way (my great grandmother was an herbalist and a midwife). The area my Dad’s folks came from is right smack dab in the middle of the eastern area of Cherokee country. Lots of family stories confirm all the same. One story even tells about my great great grandmother walking from North Carolina to see her daughter (my great grandmother)in Wise County, Virginia, singing and talking to herself in Cherokee. I have resigned myself that I will probably never know the real truth.

    Thanks for letting me stand on my soap box for a while.

  • Avatar for Juliet Bickert

    Juliet Bickert

    says:

    My maternal Grandmother, Lucy Sulier was a full-blooded French Canadian Native person. I was told the building housing the records in North Dakota where she lived burned down. Is there another way for me to find out more about this part of my ancestry? Any guidance would be appreciated.
    Thank you in advance,
    Juliet Bickert

  • Avatar for Kate

    Kate

    says:

    I’ve bee told that my great grandmother was Native American but we don’t know what tribe she was from and ancestry didn’t have any information.

  • Avatar for athena

    athena

    says:

    every one keeps telling me that if your ancestor isnt on the dawes roll then there isnt a roll number or they wasnt on any of the rolles ect my great grndfather and grandfather started a roll and i have it right along with my whole family so im a little confused and nw im doing research on my husbands side and have found some names that match his family tree but cant find out if its the right ones or the tribes is all ive been told is one of his great grandmothers was a minor slave on the chickasaw freedman minor roll and i havent been able to find a place to search the affiliate numbers film numbers ect also found where her husband his great grandfather was listed as living in indian territory but cant seem to link that to any land alottment

    • Avatar for C Avalos

      C Avalos

      says:

      Try to go one or two more generations back. I figured out that an individual who lived on Indian Territory does not necessarily mean they received a land grant under their name or were Indian. They could have been a laborer, living with family, boarding with people, etc.

      • Avatar for Showneen

        Showneen

        says:

        Can you refer a Native American genealogist? Please, a good one

  • Avatar for Angela Flores Trevino

    Angela Flores Trevino

    says:

    I have heard of rumors that our Grandfather Jesus Flores married to Maryhelen Trevino was native American but do not know what tribe. Would love to know his heritage and that of our grandmother too. They use to live in south Texas. Have checked Ancestry.com and no luck. So I’m here looking for some help.

    • Avatar for Marion Yarbrough

      My mothers father was for blood Cherokee Indian and my dad’s mother was full blood Sounsacie Indian How do I find out where I can apply for a check because I believe that I am 2/4 Indian can you email me back [email protected]

  • Avatar for Shawn Sweat

    Shawn Sweat

    says:

    Hard to trace Native American ancestry. Cheifs should of made it easier for the Eastern Appalachia Native American to find lol… Indian Cheifs Present

    MOHAWKS
    Abraham Aroghiadecka Onohario Kanadagaya Kayenqueregoa Kendrick Tobarihoga &c &c &c.

    ONONDAGAS
    The Bunt Diaquanda Tawawshughti Tewawmit &c. &c.

    SENECAS
    Guastrax Odongot &c &c &c.

    ONEIDAS
    Ganaghquieson Senughsis Tagawaron Nicholasera Cajuheta &c &c &c.

    CAJUGAS
    Tagaaia Atrawawna Skanarady &c &c &c

    TUSCARORAS
    Saquarcesera Kanigot Tyagawehe &c &c &c

    MINGOS of Ohio SHAWANESE
    Benevissica

    DELAWARES
    Killbuck Turtleheart ..

    • Avatar for Marvel

      Marvel

      says:

      My great great grandmother was one of a set of twins that were indian medicine women. When she married my great great grandfather, because he was a white man–a frenchman, she was removed from the tribal roles. Like she never existed. We can trace things back to her and have but have never been able to find which tribe she came from though we suspect. Sometimes there are reasons you can’t trace your roots back.

  • Avatar for april ramos castoreno

    april ramos castoreno

    says:

    My grandparents julia Rodriguez and and her husband Edwardo Ramos were registered natives. I believe that they are mescalaro apache of Fort Worth ,Texas. My grandparents had a large family nineteen in all. Petra ,Sophia,Pollene,Maria,Daniel,Herman,Ines.I know my grandfather had a twin brother. If you know any of my family and have information about the native heritage please contact me. I want my children to know there native background,before I go. I am interested to know why we were always told to deny being native,and answer if asked that we we’re Mexican from a Texas.

    • Avatar for C Avalos

      C Avalos

      says:

      Natives were treated horribly, to say the least. The conquistadors would kidnap and rape women. The “Indian population” was a “problem” as they stood in the way of valuable land. Stating that one was “white” or “from Texas” could have been the words that saved their life. Just to give you an idea, the next generation of people (late 1700s) were referred to as “Mestizo” if they were a mix of Indian and European. The goal was to eventually rid this continent of Indians so that Spain could rule.

      • Avatar for Red, White, and me

        Red, White, and me

        says:

        That actually isn’t true. The Spanish Mestisaje was nothing like the way anglos treated Indians (though, not perfect). Oh, and one more thing MEXICAN MESTIZOS AREN’T INDIAN. HAVING INDIAN BLOOD ISN’T WHAT MAKES YOU INDIAN

    • Avatar for cathy terry

      cathy terry

      says:

      Hello, my name is cathy and my maiden name is Pecina. I have been trying to find information on my family and saw the names you wrote and they look familiar. My grandmother my dad’s mom was Eko diamond his father’s name was sabstain and we were told his dad was a mescalro. My grandmother we think is native but all her info is gone. I did the DNA but still no closer to finding any prove of having native other then from my dna. I know my grandmother could never talk about having any native blood. My father’s name was Ted Pecina. I know my grandfather’s dad changed their name from Pecina to Pecina.

  • Avatar for Audricka Ezernack Young

    Audricka Ezernack Young

    says:

    Wondering if anyone can help me with info. on the Ebarb. tribe of Louisiana. this is not yet a federal reconized tribe. But is by the state. i am very interested in learning. the facts about the Ezernacks that. are regarded as founding members. Thank you!!!

  • Avatar for Meredith

    Meredith

    says:

    Are there any adoption or other records etc of Native Americans/Canadian babies around the end 1800s,start 1900s.

  • Avatar for Yvette Arredondo

    Yvette Arredondo

    says:

    I’m trying to find information about Larry or lawrence Reyes his father was Innocent or Inocente Reyes and they’re to be full blooded Shonshone but from where are what tribe is unknown to me or his 3 daughters that he had with Amelia Rodriguez back in the mid 40’s. Larry left Orange County Calif in the 50’s or early 60’s with another woman with whom he 2 or 3 sons. All are said to have died in seperately in Oregon. I know Larry had bothers and a sister. Helen Bleeker had since passed but if anyone has info on Larry Reyes please contact me.

  • Avatar for Beverly Nelms

    Beverly Nelms

    says:

    As far as I know I have no native ancestors. My Grandfather, Ben Abbott and his family lived near Tonkawa, OK from the late 1800’s through the 1940s. He worked in the Three Sands oil fields.
    He told me his mother died when he was a baby and his father married a native woman. She died when he was a young teenager. He never knew her name and no one in the family would talk about her later.
    He said she was shy and beautiful and very kind. He said he didn’t think any of them would have lived through childhood without her there.
    I doubt there is any way to find her family, but it felt right to have our family finally publicly acknowledge her and her kindness.

  • Avatar for Doreen Roy

    Doreen Roy

    says:

    My mother was status from the Nipissing First Nations in Ontario Canada, and my father is Metis.

  • Avatar for Josefina Lopez

    Josefina Lopez

    says:

    I have a picture of my great grandmother in full head gear and clothing of an unknown tribe. she died when my grandmother was very young and we have no information on her. The name we were given is not coming up on anything. Her name was Santos Ornelas. Is there any way for someone to look at the pic and at least tell what direction to go in. It is almost like she is a ghost. No information about her marrying my great grandfather exist or her being the mother of my grandmother.

    • Avatar for Paul G

      Paul G

      says:

      Try posting in our forums. People there may can help.

  • Avatar for Kate Lofton

    Kate Lofton

    says:

    One more thing, this particular Kate Stone listed in Guion Miller rolls seemed to be half Cherokee but they rejected her application because she was born into slavery. That seems unfair. Her descendents today should challenge that if possible.

  • Avatar for Kate Lofton

    Kate Lofton

    says:

    Hi again, it seems that my great great grandmother Kate Lofton (Stone) is not the same Kate Stone listed in the Guion Miller rolls index. Infact, that application was made by a slave and rejected. None of the family information on the actual application matched my great great grandmother. I didn’t think I would find much but at least I thought I would look in case. Sighs.. maybe one day I’ll know the truth.

    • Avatar for Amy Hall

      Amy Hall

      says:

      You might go to FindAGrave.com and search names. Sometimes there’s links and family info. Good luck!

  • Avatar for Kate Lofton

    Kate Lofton

    says:

    I don’t think there is any help for my situation. I can’t afford to pay a specialist eiher. Ancestry.com is no help either. I’ve basically reached a dead end. Kate Lofton (Stone) (1855-1944) is my great great grandmother on my mother’ side. I’ve always been told she was Cherokee/French. My grandmother Lillian Ida Stone (Massey) was always proud of her Native American roots. As a child I was exposed to the American Indian culture by my grandmother. I don’t think she was part of any tribe. Infact, she mostly hung out with the Navajo’s in New Mexico since she lived there a lot. But she didn’t care that they were not the same race as her as long as she could still be part of the American Indian culture. I did find a Kate Stone on the Guion Miller rolls but no idea if it is her or not. Stone was her married name to her 4th husband. She died in Louisiana, where she speant most of her life. On the death index, they did not know her race.. it said White or Mexican. I thought that was funny since we have no Mexican blood in our family but I guess since was brown or tan, they were not sure. Personally I would just like to know the real truth and I cannot seem to find it anywhere. There are plenty of google searches for her and all say the same thing, that she was Cherokee.. some say she was adopted after her mother died.. some say she went to visit family once in Oklahoma.. told her husband’s family she was Cherokee. I’m not even 100% sure who her mother and father were or even where she was born. I do have her photo. I have a lot of info about her life as an adult but nothing as a child. I guess I should just let it go but it’s hard to.. I just need to know, hard to explain why. It’s almost like her mother and her/my ancesters whoever they are want to be remembered.. to not be forgotten… as they have been for so long. Thanks to anyone who feels inspired to help. My ancestry.com name is KateLofton.

    • Avatar for Kate Lofton

      Kate Lofton

      says:

      Hi, just wanted to update my post. I did check the Guion Miller roll but it was not my great great grandmother. I didn’t think it would be since I don’t know for sure who her parents are. Thanks in advance for any help that comes my way.

  • Avatar for Aisha Horton Bell-Donaldson

    Aisha Horton Bell-Donaldson

    says:

    Hello. With my family history, I am not sure if I am a native american. My grandmother was a mixture of black and blackfoot, my grandfather was full blackfoot. I do not know what that makes my father and my mother is black. Is there someway that I will be able to tell if I am a blackfoot indian?

    • Avatar for Paul G

      Paul G

      says:

      Follow the steps on this page to learn more about your heritage.

      • Avatar for Brett

        Brett

        says:

        I was adopted at birth, and now fast forward 46 years, I have now finally met my biological mother. She has had a rough life, and as such did not have a good relationship with her parents(my grandparents), both have past away, and I was never able to meet them or ask them questions. She has told me that my grandfather, and great grandfather (both with the same name) were named Harold Coke Lucas from Sacul (notice that the town name is Lucas spelled backwards, I have been told that my family settled the area) Texas, and were Native American (tribe unknown). I have been trying to find out about my heritage, but do not know where to turn to even begin my search. Is there anyone who can help me just to start my search. I appreciate any help anyone can lend.
        Thank you
        Brett

      • Avatar for Jay Fennell

        Jay Fennell

        says:

        My grandmother was White Earth Chippewa. I am a descendant by default. I have never applied for tribal enrollment. I don’t need the U.S. government or the BIA, or anyone to validate or define who I am. We are the only people that are required by the invaders and even our own people, to prove some blood quantum fallacy and carry pedigree papers like we are some kind of dog. I would be betraying my people and give acceptance to what they do by giving into this illusion perpetrated to eventually blood quantum us out of existence in their eyes in order for them to move in and take what little they haven’t destroyed. Thereby making us even more invisible so they don’t have to look at their crimes. I’m not interested in the wonderful benefits and super Indian decoder ring that such an honor can grant me. Give us what is already ours and always will be? You can’t be serious. And we fall right in line like obedient slaves and perpetuate an illusion that we never knew until they taught us and we accepted. We are human beings. Not animals. Too many people fought and died in order to prevent this from happening. Have we lost all honor and become what they want us to be? Not me. I would rather die. I never agreed to any of their garbage.

  • Avatar for Laura

    Laura

    says:

    I know that my ancestors are Native American but no one is exactly sure of the tribe. Is there a way to find out by the way my great great grandmother was dressed in an old picture?

      • Avatar for alexi

        alexi

        says:

        hi my name is lexi and i need help finding out the tribe my son’s father’s family is my son’s great grandparents are apache and Cherokee but there getting older and dont want it to be to late one of his great grandpas sister.got the help but she was really cruel and told the family she wouldnt help us get the tanf help then she died without any information?please help

  • Avatar for Shawn Wichita

    Shawn Wichita

    says:

    Zero history for me, only Pahsetopah side. Wha-Zha-Zhi

    • Avatar for Marion Yarbrough

      My mothers father was for blood Cherokee Indian and my dad’s mother was full blood Sounsacie Indian How do I find out where I can apply for a check because I believe that I am 2/4 Indian can you email me back MLY02 [email protected]

      • Avatar for Rathahonni

        Rathahonni

        says:

        LOL! When you find out,let me know!

  • Avatar for jentela

    jentela

    says:

    i just found out im 25% percent indan i grew up going to powows and i loved them

  • Avatar for John Garcia Jr.

    John Garcia Jr.

    says:

    Recently my family obtained a DNA sample and submitted it for analysis. Premiminary findings showed our Grandmother to be of Pima origin. Our Grandfather is pending. We also have a 1940 census showing our Grandparents, Aunts, and Uncles as “indian” with no tribal indication. Our verbal history from our Grandparents is that, “We are Apache”. With the DNA and census info, would this be valid proof for enrollment?

    • Avatar for Paul G

      Paul G

      says:

      Probably not. But each tribe has their own requirements. You need to contact the tribe for more details.

  • Avatar for John Garcia Jr.

    John Garcia Jr.

    says:

    My family members recently obtained DNA samples from our last living Aunt. Preliminary results show our Grandmother was Pima. Results on our Grandfather are pending. We have a census from 1940 which shows our grandparents and children listed as “indian”. How valad are these “proofs” if presented to enroll the family?

    • Avatar for Paul G

      Paul G

      says:

      Most tribes require documented links to people on previous rolls like the Dawes Roll. DNA tests are a way to tell your genetic breakdown. But they are not considered legal proof for enrollment.

      • Avatar for keba jackson

        keba jackson

        says:

        Well eastern band of Cherokee Indians now requires DNA testing for enrollment but it’s currently only open to kids under3.

        • Avatar for Valerie

          Valerie

          says:

          How do xheck

      • Avatar for denise dennis

        where can i get the dna test so i can find out my father has past away so did my mom but dont know much about here please email me back thanks

    • Avatar for alexi

      alexi

      says:

      hi i was wondering if you can be willing to help me find information or where to start finding out my son’s tribe through my husbands side im 21 years old and need help can you conta t me ?

    • Avatar for Roy Venable

      I just had my DNA checked at Ancestry. Com – I found iit to be very vague and I could have come to a very near conclusion using my family names and google those and come up with even more accurate conclusion – My grandmother said she was born in Beardy,Nebraska on a Indndian Reservation but no mention of any Indian Blood on my DNA report – Anybody out there reading this.have any advise where or who to go to next ? Thank you in advance for Amy help in this matter -Important to me to make a connection with my family I have not yet met .

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