Cultural Crossroads, on the topic of Forced Migration.
Identification of the Wichita
The Quivira: The Wichita’s Ancestors
Official Seal of the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes.
Before the turn of the 16th century, the Wichita Indians were known as the Quivira Indians. Originating from what is now known as the state of Kansas, the Quivira lived in the southern plains of Kansas for centuries, establishing the prominent ancestral background of the Wichita that we know today. The first documented interaction between the Quivira and a different group of people occurred in 1541. As a part of the Coronado Expedition, Francisco Vázquez de Coronado y Luján led his men into the Quivira Territory in search of Gold but instead were greeted warmly by the kindness of the Quivira, and were offered to stay as guests as well. The relationship that was established between the Quivira and the Spanish was positive, and remained intact for several years after their initial contact.
The Change in the Quivira Territory over Time.
16 Century: This map illustrated by Hal M. Story shows the territory of the Quivira which covered parts of the North Texas Panhandle, Oklahoma and Kansas. Additionally, the neighboring Apache Tribe’s territory and Osage Indians can be viewed as well.
1719: This map illustrated by Hal M. Story shows the territory of the Quivira in relation to the changing populations around them. At this time, the Quivira became displaced into separated bands. With the introduction of the aggressive and powerful Comanche and the Spanish settlers, the Quivira’s territory became smaller (still illustrated in dots). We additionally see the shift in the Apache’s territory completely, as well as the introduction of Spanish cities throughout Texas such as San Antonio and San Lorenzo.
1834: This map illustrated by Hal M. Story shows the final massive shift in the boundaries of both the Spanish, and the several Native American Tribes. At this time, the Washita and the remaining Wichita Reservations is located in the state of Oklahoma.
¹ Bell, Robert, Edward B. Jelks, and W. W. Newcomb, “Wichita Indians.” (New York: Garland, 1974)
² Elam, Earl H. “Kitikiti’sh: The Wichita Indians and Associated Tribes in Texas, 1757 – 1859.” Hill College Press, 2008
³ Newcomb Jr., William W. “The People Called Wichita.” Phoenix: Indian Tribal Series, 1976.
