top of page

The Chitimacha

Farming
 
The Chitimacha people have traditionally been farmers, cultivating crops like corn, beans, and squash. They have been able to do this successfully in the swamps and bayous of the basin.
Overview
​

The Chitimacha tribe is the only indigenous community in Louisiana that still possesses some of their original land. They have a long history of occupation in the Atchafalaya Basin and surrounding areas.

Image of Chitmacha adult and kid

Transportation

 

Since the Chitimacha lived near the water, they made use of dugout canoes that they crafted from cypress logs for transportation.

​

Weaving

 

Chitimacha women were known for their weaving skills, creating large baskets from river cane. These baskets were made with strict adherence to using three colors - red, yellow, and black.

​

Present day

 

Currently, the remaining Chitimacha natives reside in the community of Charenton on a reservation.

bottom of page