Delving into your family history can be an enriching journey, especially if you suspect Cherokee Indian ancestry. Many people seek information on tracing their lineage, and understanding the associated costs is a crucial first step. While directly tracing Cherokee ancestry doesn’t have a fixed “price tag,” the process involves various resources and potential fees. This article explores the costs associated with researching your Cherokee heritage and provides guidance on where to begin your search.
Two centuries ago, the Cherokee Indians were a single tribe inhabiting the southeastern region of what is now the United States. The Indian Removal Act of the 1830s and 1840s led to the forced relocation of many Cherokees westward to “Indian Territory,” which is now Oklahoma. However, some Cherokees remained in the Southeast, particularly in North Carolina, where they purchased land and continue to reside. Today, individuals with Cherokee ancestry can fall into several categories, each with implications for tracing their lineage.
Understanding Cherokee Enrollment and Membership
Determining your connection to a federally recognized Cherokee tribe can significantly impact your research process. There are several categories of Cherokee individuals:
- Descendants of those listed on the Dawes Commission Rolls: These rolls, finalized in 1907, document members of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma (now known as the Cherokee Nation). Membership is based on these rolls.
- Members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians of North Carolina: This group has its own enrollment criteria.
- Members of the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians of Oklahoma: Membership is based on a list of members identified in 1949.
- Individuals with Cherokee ancestry but not affiliated with a specific tribe: These individuals must trace their ancestry through historical records like the Dawes Rolls.
Costs Associated with Researching Cherokee Ancestry
While no single fee unlocks your family history, several potential costs arise during the research process:
- Accessing Records:
- Dawes Rolls: The Dawes Rolls are publicly accessible through the National Archives. Accessing them online is generally free, but in-person research at a National Archives facility might involve travel expenses.
- Tribal Enrollment Records: Accessing enrollment records for the Cherokee Nation, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, or United Keetoowah Band may involve fees for copies or research assistance. Contacting the respective tribe directly is crucial to understand their specific policies and associated costs.
- Genealogy Websites and Software: Several genealogy websites offer subscription services that provide access to census records, historical documents, and family tree building tools. These subscriptions can range from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars per year, depending on the level of access.
- Professional Genealogists: If you encounter difficulties in your research, hiring a professional genealogist specializing in Native American ancestry can be beneficial. Genealogist fees vary based on experience and the complexity of the research.
- Travel and Accommodation: Researching onsite at archives, libraries, or tribal headquarters may necessitate travel and accommodation costs.
- DNA Testing: While DNA testing can provide clues about your ancestry, it cannot definitively prove Cherokee heritage for tribal enrollment purposes. However, it can offer insights into your genetic background and connect you with potential relatives. DNA testing kits typically range from $50 to $200.
Navigating the Dawes Rolls
The Dawes Rolls are a critical resource for individuals seeking to establish Cherokee ancestry. Enacted in 1906, a law mandated the creation of final rolls, allotting land or cash to each enrollee. These rolls document the membership of the Five Civilized Tribes in Oklahoma: the Cherokee Nation, the Chickasaw Nation, the Choctaw Nation, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, and the Seminole Nation. These are the only federally recognized tribes using the Dawes Rolls as their base membership rolls.
Contacting Cherokee Tribes Directly
For information on enrollment criteria or records, contacting the relevant tribe directly is essential:
- Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians: Qualla Boundary, P.O. Box 455 Cherokee, NC 28719 Phone: (828) 497-7000 Fax: (828) 497-7007 https://ebci.com/
Individuals who are not affiliated with any of these tribes but believe they have Cherokee ancestry should begin by examining the Dawes Commission Rolls to find their ancestors’ listings.
Resources for Further Research
- Cherokee Nation
- Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in North Carolina
- United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma
- Dawes Rolls: Final Rolls
Conclusion
Determining how much tracing your Cherokee ancestry costs is difficult, as it depends on the depth of your research and the resources you utilize. Beginning with free resources like the Dawes Rolls and contacting the relevant Cherokee tribes is a good starting point. Remember that patience and persistence are key to unlocking your family history and uncovering your Cherokee heritage. Whether you utilize free online resources, subscribe to genealogy services, or engage a professional genealogist, each choice will influence the overall cost of your ancestral journey.
