Confederated Tribes of
Coos Bay Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians
Medford
Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians A sense of abundance and gratitude defines the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians, a cultural identity that springs from the richness of their ancestral homeland. Since long before written records, the miluk (Coos), hanis (Coos), shayuushtl’a (Siuslaw) and quuiich (Lower Umpqua) people thrived along the freshwater rivers and saltwater bays of what today is called the Central and South Coast of Oregon. Their historic territory extended some 2,500 square miles, from the wind-sculpted sand dunes along the Pacific to the ancient forests of the Coast Range. Deeply connected with this ruggedly beautiful landscape, the people had everything they needed. They built villages of cedar-plank houses; crafted clothing and utensils; and enjoyed a varied diet of shellfish, fish, game and edible plants. Even when faced with violent transgressions and devastating loss of their life-giving lands, the tribes continued to carry on their values, celebrating the abundance of their culture. The lessons and knowledge passed down from ancestors continue to guide today’s tribal citizens, who have rebuilt a strong and successful community on Oregon’s Central and South Coast. The tribes’ Three Rivers Casino Resort is a top regional destination and a mainstay of the local economy, in turn strengthening several other tribal businesses and supporting vital tribal services. In 2022 the casino distributed $6 million to the tribes’ government programs, funding housing, health care, cultural education, youth outreach, environmental-restoration work and more. The tribes’ generosity and compassion are also reflected in the Three Rivers Foundation, which seeks to enrich the health and welfare of the land and the people of its historical homelands. The foundation awarded $1.4 million to more than 100 grassroots community organizations in 2021, and has awarded nearly $2.7 million since it began awarding grants in 2012. Visitors to the Central and South Coast may feel a sense of abundance, too, when they experience the area’s stunning environment of clear-running rivers, thick forests, beaches and dunes. It is a gift from the generations who came long before and the hard work of current tribal citizens, staff and partners implementing restoration efforts — a reminder to all to cherish and care for these priceless waters and lands while visiting.
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G U I D E TO O R EG O N I N D I A N CO U N T RY
shifting dunes, the lake was actually a tidal estuary, and it holds special significance for the tribes: Materials found at ancient homesites here have been dated to 8000 B.C.E. — more than 5,000 years older than the pyramids of Egypt. (Remember that it is illegal to disturb or remove any artifacts.) NEARBY VISITOR ATTRACTIONS With its stunning scenery, winsome coastal towns, and mile after mile of sandy beaches, Oregon’s Coast has long been a favorite vacation destination. In fact, several vacations’ worth of attractions and outdoor
CAPE ARAGO
Cape Arago State Park is an ideal place for whale watching and short trails that lead to beaches and tide pools.
MORGAN GAINES
EXPLORING TRIBAL WATERS: WATER IS LIFE Waterways characterized the tribal lands of the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw people. You may see tribal citizens paddling those same rivers and lakes today in traditional dugout canoes. For visitors, getting out on the water is a fitting way to explore the region. In the Coos watershed, paddlers can explore the gentle Coos River upstream or put in at the South Slough, where a mix of tidal and freshwater wetlands attracts a wide variety of birds. Near Reedsport, Tahkenitch Lake is a meandering freshwater lake with good fishing and undeveloped shoreline to explore. Until becoming landlocked by
