Alabama–Quassarte Tribal Town
Alabama–Quassarte Tribal Town is a federally recognized Native American tribe and a historic town of two Muskogean-speaking peoples—the Alabama and the Coushatta (Quassarte). Traditional languages included Alabama, Koasati, and Mvskoke. Today, about 350–369 enrolled citizens live mainly in Oklahoma, with members also in Texas, Louisiana, and Arizona.
History in brief
- The Alabama and Quassarte lived along the Alabama River. They shared language and culture and, in 1763, joined the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Confederacy.
- Some members moved to Louisiana and Texas, forming the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana and the Alabama–Coushatta Tribe of Texas. Those who stayed in Alabama joined to form a single town.
- The tribe was relocated to Indian Territory in the 1830s during forced removals.
- Land allotments and the breakup of tribal governments followed in the late 19th century (Dawes Act and Curtis Act), with the federal government increasing its control.
- The Alabama–Quassarte Tribal Town organized as a distinct federally recognized tribe in April 1939.
- In 1972, citizens could also be citizens of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, a status that continues for some members.
Today and government
- The tribe is headquartered in Wetumka, Oklahoma, with a jurisdiction spanning many Oklahoma counties.
- It is governed by a chief, second chief, secretary, floor speaker, solicitor, chairman of the governing committee, and a twelve-member governing committee.
- Enrollment is based on lineal descent from the 1890 and 1895 rolls. There is no minimum blood quantum, but you must prove your lineage to a citizen parent at birth. Some federal benefits require a certain amount of Native blood.
- The tribe maintains close ties with the Muscogee Creek Nation, and some citizens are dually enrolled. Tribal courts fall under the Muscogee Nation’s jurisdiction.
- Alabama–Quassarte operates a tribal housing program and a gaming center, Red Hawk Gaming, in Wetumka.
This page was last edited on 3 February 2026, at 08:17 (CET).