2008-10-23

The Apache

Bill Ellis

The Spanish called Indians who lived in the American southwest Apache. The Lipan were the Apaches who lived in Texas.

The Lipan were considered wild, uncivilized and barbaric by those who used such words to demonize the Apache so that Europeans could steal their homes and land. They said that Apaches had no culture because they would not be subject to the Spaniards.

The Apache had their own songs and traditions. They wanted to follow the buffalo and the four seasons. It took Spain more than 200 years to conquer the Apache.

The Lipan are a tough, resilient people. They are people of the desert and lived in a hostile environment.

Once the Indian was a friend to the white man. The Lipan helped the Texas Rangers and sided with Texas in our war for independence against Mexico. The Lipan accepted the tools of the Europeans – iron arrowheads, pots, knives and horses. They still have their songs, dances and ceremonies that are not shared with anyone.

Indians were not considered to be citizens until the Indian Citizen Act of 1924. Texas still does not acknowledge the existence of any Indians. South Texas is filled with Lipan Apache.
Sadly, there are many living in south Texas who do not know they are Apaches. The Lipan Apache may be contacted at the following address: Lipan Apache Band of Texas, 1306 South 9th Avenue, Edinburg, 78539. Or call 956-566-3318 or 559-341-6363.

Wado.

Squash flower omelet
Take fully grown squash flowers and wash in clear water. Fry slightly in butter. Add beaten eggs and cook lightly.