The Jumano Indians

"The Jumano Indians" by Frederick Webb Hodge is a scholarly historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the complex history of the Jumano tribe, which was significant during the early exploration and colonization of the Southwestern United States. It delves into their lifestyle, interactions with European explorers, and the mysterious factors contributing to their population decline. In this work, Hodge compiles early accounts from explorers like Alvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca and Antonio de Espejo, who encountered the Jumano Indians in the 16th century. He describes their semi-agricultural society, which included complex social practices, such as tattooing and unique food preparation methods. The narrative traces the tribe's movements across the Rio Grande and into present-day New Mexico and Texas, detailing their interactions with missionaries and the impact of colonization. Ultimately, Hodge raises intriguing questions about the tribe's eventual disappearance from the historical record, suggesting a shift in their way of life that led them to blend with other tribes, including the Wichita and Tawehash, thereby making their distinct identity harder to trace.