Seminole
The Seminole were a Native American tribe known for their strength and unique way of life. They had their own language, customs, and traditions. The Seminoles were skilled farmers, hunters, and fishers who built homes called chickees. They believed in many spirits and held special ceremonies to honor them. Despite facing many challenges, including conflicts with settlers and forced relocations, the Seminole have preserved their culture and continue to share their rich heritage today.
Location and Environment
The Seminole developed from the Creek Confederacy, mainly from the Creek and Hitchiti tribes. They settled in Florida, which was then Spanish territory.
Housing and Shelter
The Seminole built their homes on higher ground in the swampland. In the center of the village was the Great House, comprised of four low, bark-covered houses built around a square courtyard. Each house was assigned to a warrior who helped the chief, called Miko. Meetings were held in the Great House. A round Council House was built on higher ground near one corner of the Great House, where Miko and the warriors met to make decisions. One large house in each village was used as the cook house, with a raised floor covering half of the building. Walls made of bark were built underneath the floor for a safe, cool room to store food. The roof was high so that fires could be kept burning at all times. Families lived in homes called chickees, which had no outside or inside walls. The house was made by driving big logs into the ground between posts. The floor was made of long poles covered with cypress bark and palm leaves. The roof, made of poles covered with bark and leaves, sloped down on each side from the center. A ladder was used for climbing up to the floor. Fires were built outside the house.
Clothing and Adornments
The Seminole made most of their clothing from deerskin and woven plant fibers. Women wore skirts and blouses, often decorated with colorful patterns and beads. Men wore breechcloths and leggings, and both men and women wore moccasins. In colder weather, they wore capes made from animal fur. The Seminole also adorned themselves with shells, beads, and animal teeth jewelry. Body painting and tattoos were common, with designs often holding cultural significance.