Modoc Nation

Modoc Nation Federally Recognized Tribe originally from Northern California & Southern Oregon. Wright decided that he had heard enough of these “murderous Modocs”.

The Modoc Tribe is a federally recognized Indian Tribe; organized under the Oklahoma Indian Welfare Act of 1936. The Modoc Tribe has a constitution and bylaws, approved by the United States Secretary of the Interior. The native Modoc homelands are in the Pacific Northwest, located between the Pacific Ocean and the Sierra-Nevada Mountains along the present-day California and Oregon borders. As a re

sult of the Modoc War in 1872-1873, the Modoc people who fought for their homelands were forcibly removed, as prisoners of war, to the Quapaw Agency located in the northeast region of Indian Territory, present-day Oklahoma. The Modoc Tribe is the only tribe to be exiled to Oklahoma from the western United States. The United States policies of Manifest Destiny and the transcontinental railroad, along with the discovery of gold in the mountains of California, better known as the California Gold Rush, led to the mass immigration of thousands settlers and prospectors into the Modoc lands. As a result of this mass intrusion, tensions arose between Modoc people and those who entered into their homelands. Stories, mostly of myth, were told among the intruding settlers and prospectors about the Modoc people being “ruthless” and “murderous” in killing innocent people who entered into their lands. These false stories were often used as statistics and political tools for encouraging violence and the removal of the Modoc people from their native homelands, including State policies being passed and financially supported to kill natives, including the Modoc people. In 1852 on a November day, a man by the name of Ben Wright who was a self-proclaimed “Indian killer” from Indiana, came out to Modoc country in search of gold. Wright gathered up a group of miners and negotiated a deal with the California government to be paid for every Modoc that his posse could kill. Wright and his posse set up camp near a Modoc village and rode in amongst the Modoc people there under a white flag of peace. Upon entering the village, Wright and his men opened fire on the unarmed Modoc people, shooting and killing all the men, women, and children that the posse could find. Less than five Modoc people from this Modoc village survived the unjustified slaughtering that became known as the Ben Wright Massacre. The settlers praised Ben Wright and called him a “hero” while the Modoc people mourned the loss of the innocent mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters, sons and daughters. Treaty of 1864 (October 1864)
The region of the Lost River became a destination for settlers and non-Indian people who wanted to enter into the region and become landowners. The Modoc people who had lived and occupied this region for thousands of years had now become an obstacle for the U.S. government. The federal policy for most of the United States history was the concept of a “Treaty” between the U.S. government and a tribe, where the tribes would agree to give up their expansive claims to all of their aboriginal lands in exchange for a tract of land called a “reservation.” Tribes were assured that these reservations would remain as Indian lands “forever” and the United States would protect their boundaries from incursions by non-Indians. The United States government considered the Modoc lands to be a prime area for settlers and thus decided in 1864 to get the Modoc leaders to enter into a Treaty and place the Modoc people on a reservation, along with two other tribes, the Klamath and the Yahooskin band of Snake Indians. The reservation would be known as the Klamath Reservation. The government also promised in this treaty to provide supplies and money for goods, and build shops and mills for logging, along with schools for the Modoc children. During this time, the Civil War was still being waged between the Union and the Confederacy. As a result, the Treaty of 1864 was not ratified or honored by the United States when entered into, but the government still expected the Modoc people to honor their terms by giving up their lands and moving onto the Klamath Reservation. The Modoc people would honor the Treaty under the assumption that the United States would do the same, and the Modoc moved to the Klamath Reservation. Life on the reservation was difficult and short-lived for the Modoc people as they were constantly harassed and taunted by settlers, soldiers, and the Klamath. The promised food and supplies were often not brought to the Modoc, or if they were, they were later taken back or stolen by the Klamath. Within months, these disparaging events led a Modoc leader named Kientpoos, or Captain Jack as the United States came to know him, to call a meeting amongst his people. Together the Modoc people decided that they would leave the Klamath Reservation and go back to their homelands in the Lost River and Tule Lake region. Upon learning that Modoc people had returned to their homelands, the settlers who had entered into the lands began to complain to government agents and the military that they feared the Modoc people, and that the Modoc should be removed for their safety. The Modoc War (November 1872 – June 1873)
The Treaty of 1864 was finally ratified by the United States in 1870. By this time, Captain Jack and his Modoc people had returned to their homelands and had been living there as they did before. The settlers continued to protest against them. Some of the Modoc people traveled back to the Klamath Reservation under new terms and on a new location. Captain Jack visited the location and found it unsuitable in comparison to his homelands. Captain Jack attempted to negotiate a new Treaty and reservation with government officials within his homeland region for the Modocs, but the government at the time decided that it would no longer enter into Treaties with Indian tribes. The Modoc people continuing to live in their homelands, in defiance of the Treaty of 1864, led the United States government to issue orders for their removal and placement back on the Klamath Reservation. However Captain Jack’s band of about 170 Modoc decided to remain on their homelands. By November of 1872, orders came from the Commissioner on Indian Affairs, F.A. Walker, in Washington, D.C. to remove Captain Jack’s band of Modocs “peacefully if possible, but forcible if you must.”

With orders in hand, the U.S. Army rode to the Lost River region where Captain Jack and his people were living. The Army demanded that the Modoc people “give up their guns” and that they were under arrest for violating the Treaty. A Modoc man by the name of Scarfaced Charley refused to give up his gun. An Army lieutenant drew his gun on Scarefaced Charley, and demanded that he give up his gun, and then fired. The lieutenant missed, and Scarfaced Charley returned fire, as did many others on opposing sides. This was known as the Battle of Lost River that ignited the Modoc War. The Modoc people retreated to an ancient lava bed field, a natural fortress that extended over 46,000 acres. It was there at the lava beds that the Modoc people of Captain Jack’s band fought over 1,000 United States soldiers from November of 1872 until June of 1873; and the Modoc who were outnumbered nearly 20 to 1, won many of the battles fought. The Peace Commission of April 11, 1873
During the Modoc War¸ a party of government officials that included Army General E.R.S. Canby, Indian Agent Alfred Meachem, and a few others attempted to negotiate a truce between the military and the Modoc and return the Modoc to the Klamath Reservation. Again, Captain Jack requested his own reservation within his homeland region, and again he was denied the request. Hearing that the government would not agree to provide the Modoc people with the requested reservation within their homelands, Captain Jack and the other Modoc men in attendance at the negotiations opened fire on the government officials. Army General E.R.S. Canby was shot and killed; becoming the first and only United States Military General to be killed in an Indian war. End of the Modoc War
After the killing of General Canby, General William Tecumseh Sherman who was the commanding General of the Army and a veteran of the Civil War, called for the “Extermination of the Modoc people.” Soldiers and volunteers came far and wide to defeat the Modocs. A military surge to defeat the Modocs pushed them out of their stronghold and the Army was able cutoff their water supply. It was only a matter of time before the Modoc people who fought for their homelands would surrender to the United States military, but he military would have to catch the Modoc first. The Modoc War and the Modoc people who fought in it became world famous, bringing newspaper reporters from as far away as Paris, France. The estimated cost of the United States in fighting the Modoc War was estimated to be at the lowest estimate a half-million dollars; in comparison to the reservation that Captain Jack had attempted to negotiate that would have only cost, at most, $10,000.00.

09/07/2023

🎨🐎 The Tradition of Horse Painting Among Native American Warriors 🐎🎨
This photo is a reminder that to our Ancestors, horses were considered to be more than just animals? They were revered companions, integral to everyday life and warfare. One fascinating tradition among our warriors involved painting their horses with vibrant, symbolic designs before heading into battle or embarking on significant journeys. Although the meaning of symbols varied from Tribe to Tribe and even Clan to Clan they told great stories and prayers.
These intricate designs were more than just decorations; each pattern and color held specific meanings, reflecting the warrior's intentions, prayers, and personal narratives. For example:
🔸 Red could signify strength and vitality
🔸 Black might represent power and success in battle
🔸 Circles often symbolized the protective eye of the spirit
🔸 Handprints might show that a warrior had disarmed an enemy
This beautiful art form wasn't just for show—it was a powerful, spiritual practice that strengthened the bond between the warrior and their horse, offering protection and channeling the energy of the ancestors and the spirits. 🙌🏽
In a world where the significance of symbolism and connection with nature can often be overlooked, this tradition of warriors painting their horses serves as a poignant reminder of the deep bonds that can exist between humans and animals, and the rich tapestry of meaning that art and symbolism can bring to our lives. 🌿🤝
Let’s honor and remember these traditions that carry profound respect for the Earth and its creatures. 💚🌎
https://ntvho.pe/3YD7L1U

Mark your calendars for the Annual Red Earth FallFest on Saturday, October 14th from 10am - 5pm on the beautiful Devon L...
09/07/2023

Mark your calendars for the Annual Red Earth FallFest on Saturday, October 14th from 10am - 5pm on the beautiful Devon Lawn at Myriad Botanical Gardens in downtown Oklahoma City. This year's festivities feature a parade, art market, and youth powwow. For more information please see:
https://redearth.org/pages/fallfest-2023

The topic for the Citizens Engagement Meeting is the Winter Gathering. Light snacks will be served. The Gathering Place ...
09/06/2023

The topic for the Citizens Engagement Meeting is the Winter Gathering. Light snacks will be served. The Gathering Place is located at 70425 E 103 Rd, Wyandotte, OK.

09/05/2023

🌼 2 more weeks until Hope Fest! 🌼

09/05/2023
09/01/2023

For thousands of years, Native communities developed a deep connection to the land, building vast pools of knowledge and honed in on conservation methods that work.

For example, Native people have long practiced the intentional setting of fires to keep forests healthy and prevent devastating wildfires. These cultural burning practices were outlawed by Western land management agencies, but they are now making a comeback thanks to advocacy efforts by Native Nations and organizations like First Nations.

If we are to thrive, not just survive, on the land, we need to return to knowledge that’s Native. You can contribute to the movement and ensure Native land stewardship continues across future generations by supporting our Tribal Lands Conservation (TLC) Fund: firstnations.org/actnow

08/31/2023

***Please share widely.***

Funding and resources for Native Craft Artists...

KEY PROGRAM FEATURES:

--Funding of $10,000 for each of the 20 chosen artists.
--Tailored training sessions to enhance business practices, including the production of a business and marketing plan.
--Access to a wealth of resources, including materials, workshops, and tools.
--One-on-one coaching from artists with successful careers. Coaches will receive national recognition for their leadership and generosity.

For the purpose of this program, "craft artist" is defined as artists who create or reproduce handmade objects for sale and exhibition using a variety of techniques such as weaving, pottery, beadwork, needlework, jewelry making, and other forms.

Apply by September 30 at https://www.atalm.org/node/628

08/31/2023

A new grant could help save lives in Oklahoma, especially of indigenous mothers giving birth.

08/31/2023

KDD to work with stakeholders for agriculture sustainability and resilient Klamath Basin wetlands through restoration plan.

08/30/2023
Wes Davis, Director of Environmental Services, recently gave a presentation at the 2023 Tribal Lands and Environment For...
08/30/2023

Wes Davis, Director of Environmental Services, recently gave a presentation at the 2023 Tribal Lands and Environment Forum in Syracuse, New York. His presentation outlined Modoc Nation's recycling program and efforts made toward decreasing contamination through improved communication and education while sharing data compiled from waste composition studies. Use the link below to access this presentation. (Note: the presentation begins around the 25 minute mark).

Recycling contamination has recently become a global concern. High rates of contaminated recycling mixed with recent closures of banned imports has demanded a desperate need for cleaner recycling. A lack of persistent education has also led to contamination issues and confusion when it comes to the....

08/30/2023

Table Sponsor Spotlight. Today we would like to recognize the Modoc Nation and their continued commitment to Horses of Hope and their mission. Thank you Modoc Nation in serving alongside Horses of Hope.

08/29/2023

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law brings billions for roads, bridges, airports and more

08/28/2023

Chef and Native American food historian Loretta Barett Oden reflects on her friendship with artist G. Peter Jemison.

08/28/2023
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08/28/2023

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Special thanks to the Wyandotte Tribe and MODOC Tribe for their donation of water bottles to our students.

Walga MTE is seeking a dynamic, proactive, and self-starting Administrative Assistant to join our team at Tulsa, OK. Thi...
08/25/2023

Walga MTE is seeking a dynamic, proactive, and self-starting Administrative Assistant to join our team at Tulsa, OK. This position is responsible for providing administration support to the President and General Manager of Walga MTE. The Submittal Clerk will report to the President and the Director of Contract Operations.

To apply, see: https://modocnation.com/careers/

Red Cedar Recycling is seeking a Shred Truck Technician to perform work under the supervision of the Environmental Direc...
08/25/2023

Red Cedar Recycling is seeking a Shred Truck Technician to perform work under the supervision of the Environmental Director. Duties include but are not limited to work performance to accomplish the goals outlined in the work plans approved by the Office of Environmental Quality. Hours of work are to be Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, with the observance of all Federal and Tribal Holidays.

For more information, see: https://modocnation.com/careers/

08/23/2023

‼️FREE TRAINING‼️

Mvskoke Fund will be hosting the "Indianpreneurship - A Guide to Business Ownership" course next month at River Spirit Casino Resort in Tulsa.

There are also three remaining dates for the “Agricultural Business & Social Media / Marketing” training series. (See comment section for details)

All courses are free to attend, and breakfast and lunch will be provided at all events.

Space is limited. Registration is available online at mvskokefund.com or you can call Mvskoke Fund at 918-549-2608.

Red Cedar Recycling is seeking a recycling technician to collect, sort, and process recyclables in Miami, Oklahoma. This...
08/23/2023

Red Cedar Recycling is seeking a recycling technician to collect, sort, and process recyclables in Miami, Oklahoma. This is a full-time position working Mondays through Fridays 8am to 4:30pm. For more information see: https://modocnation.com/careers/

Red Cedar Recycling is seeking a collections driver/assistant to collect recyclables from commercial accounts. This is a...
08/23/2023

Red Cedar Recycling is seeking a collections driver/assistant to collect recyclables from commercial accounts. This is a full-time position working Mondays through Fridays 8am to 4:30pm. For more information see: https://modocnation.com/careers/

08/23/2023

As students are preparing to head back to school, teachers have been preparing their classroom for the upcoming year by decorating, supplying, and writing lesson plans.

Attention students: the University of Oregon offers IN-STATE TUITION to students enrolled in Native American tribes that...
08/21/2023

Attention students: the University of Oregon offers IN-STATE TUITION to students enrolled in Native American tribes that had traditional and customary tribal boundaries in parts of the state of Oregon, which includes Modoc Nation. Students can also receive additional assistance through the Home Flight Scholars Program, contingent on eligibility. For more information see:
https://admissions.uoregon.edu/residency/tribes

https://www.uoregon.edu/home-flight

08/18/2023

🌿🪶🤍

08/18/2023
08/18/2023

August's Animal Spotlight is: Our ✨new✨ baby goats and lamb! 🐐🐑

08/17/2023

Save the Date! 🗓️The communications teams from Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative, Intertribal Agriculture Council, and Native American Agriculture Fund have collaborated for a special webinar series called “Native Ag Media Education.”

This series is intended for writers, press, journalists, news/media outlets, communicators, and Tribal reporters and will provide information on how to write about the resiliency and growth of Native American Agriculture.

The series includes two webinars:
Webinar 1 | Sep. 7, 2 PM EST: Indian Agriculture 101 Discussing Native Ag Production and Tribal Food Sovereignty Past, Present, and Future

Webinar 2 | Oct. 12, 2 PM EST: Telling the Story of Tribal Agriculture: Building Relationships in Indian Country & Best Practices

Register at the link here: https://bit.ly/nativeagmedia

08/17/2023

Please join USFS NPO, WDP Student Programs & the USDA Office of Tribal Relations for a virtual recruitment event! We are recruiting, current & future students attending or planning to attend 1994 Tribal Colleges & Universities, for Forest Service vacancies. The Scholarship Program includes tuition, fees, books, housing, travel, paid summer internships, and non-competitive conversion to permanent fulltime employment with the USFS upon graduation. A wide variety of positions, in diverse locations, are available.

Webinar Sign up here! TEAMS MEETING:

https://teams.microsoft.com/registration/5zZb7e4BvE6GfuA8-g1Glw,hwqv_8CckkearqfNBQHAkg,3C5b73uKt0WdR_mPLv5rVQ,ehAkXCEa6EuWodJjJppJ6g,0f_6AbEEDU2xb74fQsOZ8w,TAWghAcnrUCIovXujgSzgQ?mode=read&tenantId=ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697&webinarRing=gcc

08/16/2023

08/16/2023
08/14/2023

Professional to join our growing team. The ideal candidate will have a passion for working with individuals ages 0 to 8 years old in a school setting. This provider will collaborate and work closely with a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and school personnel to develop a comprehensive treatment plan to address the unique behavioral and mental health needs of the client.

For more info and to apply, see: https://www.indeed.com/jobs?q=A-B-C+Therapy+-+Behavioral+Health+Professional&l=miami+ok&vjk=cc8637d3af4ee1a0

08/14/2023

Evidence-based harm reduction strategies minimize negative consequences of drug use. If you or someone you know could benefit from these no-cost resources, make sure to stop by and see us NEXT MONDAY at Express Rx of Miami from 1pm - 3pm!.

For our Oregon friends...
08/14/2023

For our Oregon friends...

August 14 is National Navajo Code Talkers Day, honoring the contributions of Navajo Marines during World War II. These i...
08/14/2023

August 14 is National Navajo Code Talkers Day, honoring the contributions of Navajo Marines during World War II. These individuals encoded and transmitted messages using a complex Navajo language-based code during a time when secret communication was crucial to winning a war.

President Ronald Regan established Navajo Code Talkers Day in 1982 and the holiday honors all the tribes associated with the war effort including (but not limited to): Cherokee, Choctaw, Camanche, Hopi, and Navajo. In 2000, President Bill Clinton awarded Congressional Gold Medals to 29 Code Talkers, and in 2001, President George W. Bush presented 21 more gold and silver medals to honor these veterans.

08/14/2023
08/14/2023

Address

22 N. Eight Tribes Trail
Miami, OK
74354

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8am - 4:30pm
Friday 8am - 4:30pm

Telephone

+19185421190

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