Pascagoula Tribe of Mississippi
The Pascagoula were a small Native American tribe who historically resided along the Pascagoula River in southern Mississippi. Closely associated with the Biloxi tribe, the Pascagoula are now considered extinct as a distinct tribal entity.
Origins and Etymology
The name "Pascagoula" originates from the Choctaw term for the tribe, which translates to "bread people." This designation suggests that the Pascagoula may have been known for their agricultural practices or their role as providers of sustenance within the region.
Early Encounters
The Pascagoula first appeared in historical records in 1699, documented by Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne, Sieur de Bienville, a Canadian naval officer who, along with his brother, explored the Mississippi River Valley. At this time, the Pascagoula were living near the Pascagoula River, but they later migrated to the Gulf Coast.
Migration and Displacement
In 1764, the Pascagoula and Biloxi tribes left the Gulf Coast region and were recorded as living on the east side of the Mississippi River, approximately ten miles above the Tunica River. Prior to 1791, they moved further up the Red River into Louisiana. By 1795, they had established a settlement near the Biloxi River.
Decline and Assimilation
Over time, the Pascagoula population dwindled, and the remaining members likely assimilated into the Biloxi and Choctaw tribes. This assimilation marked the end of the Pascagoula as a separate and identifiable tribal group.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Although the Pascagoula tribe no longer exists as a distinct entity, their history and cultural heritage remain an important part of the broader narrative of Native American tribes in the southeastern United States. Their story reflects the complex interactions, migrations, and challenges faced by indigenous peoples during the period of European colonization and expansion.
Further Exploration
To delve deeper into the history and culture of the Pascagoula tribe, consider exploring the following resources:
- Historical archives and records pertaining to Native American tribes in Mississippi and Louisiana.
- Ethnographic studies and anthropological research on the Biloxi and Choctaw tribes, as these groups share close historical and cultural connections with the Pascagoula.
- Museums and cultural centers that showcase Native American artifacts and exhibits related to the southeastern United States.
By examining these resources, you can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the Pascagoula tribe and their place in the rich tapestry of Native American history.