Native American Flags: Lytton Band of Pomo Indians

The Lytton Band of Pomo Indians: Resilience and Renewal in Sonoma County

The Lytton Band of Pomo Indians is a federally recognized tribe of Pomo Native Americans with ancestral ties to the Russian River Valley in Sonoma County, California. The tribe was originally established in 1937 when Bert Steele, of Achomawi and Nomlaki descent, and his wife, a Pomo from Bodega Bay, successfully petitioned the U.S. Office of Indian Affairs to build on a 50-acre plot north of Healdsburg. This land became the Lytton Rancheria, named after the nearby Lytton Station Road. In 1958, as part of a federal policy aimed at assimilating Native Americans, the Lytton Rancheria was terminated, and its lands were deeded to individual members. Many members sold their land, leading to the dissolution of the community. However, in 1991, the tribe successfully regained federal recognition, marking a significant step in restoring their sovereignty.

Modern Presence and Community Development

Today, the Lytton Band of Pomo Indians is headquartered in Santa Rosa, California, and governed by a democratically elected tribal council. The tribe has actively pursued economic development and community revitalization initiatives.

Economic Ventures

  • Casino San Pablo: Located in San Pablo, California, this casino has been a significant source of revenue for the tribe. Originally a cardroom, it was transformed into a full-fledged casino after the tribe regained federal recognition. The casino's establishment involved legislative efforts to place the land into federal trust, allowing for expanded gaming operations.

Community Projects

  • Sonoma County Developments: The tribe has acquired land in Sonoma County with plans to build housing for tribal members, a community center, and a ceremonial roundhouse. In 2015, the tribe reached an agreement with Sonoma County officials to develop a 200-room resort and a 200,000-case winery, while agreeing not to pursue casino development on the new lands.

Cultural Preservation and Language Revitalization

The Lytton Band is committed to preserving its cultural heritage and revitalizing the Pomoan languages, which are part of the Hokan language family. These languages are severely endangered, with few fluent speakers remaining. The tribe's efforts include cultural programs and initiatives aimed at educating younger generations about their linguistic and cultural heritage.

Cultural Insights and Legacy

  • Language: The Pomoan languages, once widely spoken among the Pomo people, are now critically endangered. The Lytton Band's commitment to language revitalization is crucial for preserving their cultural identity.
  • Traditional Practices: The tribe continues to honor traditional customs, including ceremonies, storytelling, and crafts, fostering a strong sense of community and cultural continuity.
  • Environmental Stewardship: In line with traditional Pomo values, the Lytton Band emphasizes sustainable practices and environmental stewardship in their development projects.