 19th century photograph of Mechoopda women and children | |
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 413 enrolled members[1] | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
 California | |
| Languages | |
| English,Konkow | |
| Religion | |
| Christianity, traditional tribal religions | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| otherMaidu people |
TheMechoopda are a tribe ofMaidu people, anIndigenous people of California. They are enrolled in theMechoopda Indian Tribe of Chico Rancheria, afederally recognized tribe. Historically, the tribe has spokenKonkow, a language related to theMaidu language, and as of 2010, has created digital learning materials from old recordings of Emma Cooper, made during the 1940s as a part of thewar effort.[2]
The tribe was formerly centered in a village located about3+1⁄2 miles (5.6 km) south of contemporaryChico, California.[3] The Tribe was terminated in 1967, losing its 26-acre Chico Rancheria. Today, approximately one-half of the old Chico Rancheria is now owned byCalifornia State University, Chico (CSUC). The 11-acre university-owned portion of the former reservation is used by CSUC's agriculture, anthropology, and archaeology students.[4]
The Mechoopda regained federal recognition in 1992.
The Mechoopda Indian Tribe ratified their constitution on 1 February 1998. The tribe is governed by a seven-member council.[1] The current administration is as follows:
TheChico Ranchería is a federal reservation located inButte County. The population of the tribe is 560;[6] the population on theranchería is approximately 70.[citation needed] Chico is the closest town.[7]
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