Cartwrights on the Indian Rolls: A Historical and Genealogical Exploration

Wagon trains rumbling across the American West in the 19th century carried not only settlers but also a hidden legacy—the presence of Native American ancestry among the Cartwright family. This article delves into the fascinating history of the Cartwrights on the Indian rolls, tracing their lineage, examining the legal and social implications of their heritage, and providing practical guidance for researchers seeking to uncover their own family's Native American roots.

The Cartwright Family and the Indian Rolls

The Cartwrights, a prominent pioneer family in the American West, emerged from a complex tapestry of European, African, and Native American ancestry. Their connection to the Native American tribes of the Great Plains was documented in the Indian census rolls compiled by the United States government during the 19th and 20th centuries.

• Indian Rolls: Official government records that documented the names, tribal affiliations, and other information about Native Americans living in the United States.

According to the Indian rolls, several members of the Cartwright family were enrolled as members of the Lakota (Sioux) tribe. This lineage stems from the marriage of John Cartwright, a white farmer, and Mary Thunder Hawk, a Lakota woman. Their descendants carried on the family's Native American heritage, passing it down through generations.

The Legal and Social Implications of Native American Ancestry

The enrollment of Cartwrights on the Indian rolls had significant legal and social implications:

• Land Rights: Native Americans enrolled on the rolls were eligible for government land allotments, which granted them ownership of property on Native American reservations.
• Tribal Citizenship: Enrollment conferred tribal citizenship, which granted access to tribal benefits such as healthcare, education, and cultural programs.
• Social Identity: Native American ancestry influenced the Cartwrights' social identity, shaping their self-perception and how they were viewed by others.

However, the Cartwrights' Native American heritage also posed challenges. They faced discrimination and prejudice from both white and Native American communities due to their mixed ancestry. They navigated these complexities by embracing their unique identity and advocating for the rights of all Native Americans.

Researching Native American Ancestry

For those seeking to uncover their own family's Native American roots, the Indian rolls provide a valuable resource. Here are some tips:

• Check the Indian Rolls: Access the Indian rolls through the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) or the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA).
• Gather Family Records: Collect birth, marriage, and death records, which may contain information about Native American ancestry.
• Interview Family Members: Speak to elderly family members who may hold valuable memories and insights.
• Consider DNA Testing: DNA testing companies can identify Native American ancestry and provide connections to potential relatives.

Genealogical Tables

The following tables provide a sample of the Cartwrights enrolled on the Indian rolls:

Strategies for Uncovering Native American Ancestry

Effective strategies for uncovering Native American ancestry include:

• Gather as much information as possible about your family history, including birth, marriage, and death records, and family stories.
• Check official records such as the Indian rolls, census records, and military service records.
• Consider DNA testing to confirm Native American ancestry and identify potential relatives.
• Network with Native American communities and historical societies to learn about your family's history and traditions.

Tips and Tricks for Researchers

• Be patient and persistent: Researching Native American ancestry can be a time-consuming process.
• Use online resources such as Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and the National Archives website.
• Join online forums and discussion groups to connect with other researchers and share information.
• Don't give up: Even if your initial search does not yield results, there may be other avenues to explore.

Conclusion

The Cartwrights' presence on the Indian rolls highlights the complex and often hidden Native American ancestry that exists within many American families. By exploring the history, legal implications, and research strategies associated with Native American ancestry, we can gain a deeper understanding of our own heritage and the diverse tapestry that makes up the American experience.