Our Story:
The Journey of the San Carlos Apache Tribe

In the heart of southeastern Arizona, the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation stands as a testament to resilience, heritage, and the enduring spirit of our people. Established in 1872, our sacred land became a refuge for the Chiricahua Apache tribe and neighboring Yavapai and Apache bands. This relocation, orchestrated by General George Crook, sought to pit Apache tribes against each other, a dark chapter in our shared history.

Once known as “Hell’s Forty Acres” in the late 19th century, our community faced adversity due to challenging health and environmental conditions. Despite these hardships, today’s San Carlos Apaches proudly thrive, steering our destiny with the operation of the Apache Gold and Apache Sky Casinos, a Language Preservation program, a Culture Center, and a Tribal College.

Our History:
Navigating Struggles, Forging Bonds

On December 14, 1872, President U.S. Grant marked the inception of the San Carlos Apache Reservation. The Dutch Reformed Church, entrusted with its management, selected John Clum as the Indian Agent. Clum’s arrival in 1874 marked a turning point. Despite animosity from the U.S. Army and political negligence in Washington, D.C., Clum forged a lifelong friendship with Eskiminzin, an Aravaipa Apache chief.

As we sought refuge in our homeland, Clum’s influence led to the formation of a tribal court and the surrender of weapons by our people. The subsequent consolidation of tribes brought 4,200 Apache and Yavapai Indians to our semi-arid reservation. The Army’s objections to Clum’s actions led to his resignation, but not before capturing Geronimo in 1877, a success that embarrassed the U.S. Army.

In 1875, the closure of the Yavapai-Apache Camp Verde Reservation forced a march of 180 miles to the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation, resulting in the tragic death of 375 Yavapai during Indian Removal deportations.

Post-1886 deportation of the Chiricahuan Apache to Florida, San Carlos became home to diverse Apachean-speaking groups. This included the Pinal Coyotero, Aravaipa, Pinaleño, Apache Peaks, San Carlos proper, Canyon Creek, Carrizo Creek, and Cibecue bands. Despite challenges, our community endured.

After the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934, the various Apache groups united, forming a government and gaining federal recognition as the San Carlos Nation. Grenville Goodwin, an anthropologist, played a crucial role in guiding us toward more sovereignty.

In 1999, the Apache Nation Chamber of Commerce was established, fostering self-sufficiency. Our journey continued with the creation of the Wellness Center, Language Preservation Program, and the San Carlos Tribal College in 2014, marking milestones in our commitment to growth and development.

The Resolution Copper controversy, sparked in 2014, saw our tribe leading a fervent opposition. Our fight against the land exchange showcased unity with organizations like the National Audubon Society, the Sierra Club, and the National Congress of American Indians. The struggle to protect sacred lands remains a pivotal chapter in our ongoing narrative.

With an enrollment of 17,000 tribal members as of 2023, our community faces economic challenges, but our spirit endures. Spanning 1.8 million acres, our reservation encompasses diverse landscapes from northern Graham to southeastern Gila and eastern Pinal Counties. Transportation is facilitated by U.S. Route 70 and the San Carlos Apache Nnee Bich’o Nii Transit.

Our story is etched in the land, the struggles, and the triumphs. Join us in celebrating the rich heritage and vibrant future of the San Carlos Apache Tribe.