10005 East Osborn Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85256
480-850-8000
http://www.saltriver.pima-maricopa.nsn.us/
Although the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community are recognized as a single tribe today, they are in fact a group consisting of two different tribes. As one might guess, these two different groups are the Salt Rive Pima and the Maricopa Indians. Conveniently, the two names mean river people and those who live by the river respectively. Thus there should be no surprise that the two tribes chose to combine into one. Unlike other alliances, which often stem from the threat of war from other tribes or from European forces, the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community came to be because, simply, the two tribes were friendly. Rather than fighting when the former moved into the latter’s area, the two simply decided to join forces and become one overlapping community. And although both sects of the alliance pride themselves on different aspects of their lives and are known for different personalities, the two have never had a problem getting along to this day. One thing that the two tribes have always had in common are the interests in creating fine goods. The Maricopa tribe are well known for making pottery and other useful appliances such as bowls out of clay. This expertise is one that has been profitable and artful, many of these clay creations can be found in local museums and attractions. On the other side, the Salt River Pima, chose to make their art in a different way, with baskets. Known for weaving beautiful baskets that many would want, the group has always been experts with their art. Much like the Maricopa, these woven baskets can be seen in local museums and attractions. In the current day, the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community are located in Arizona and have a clear cut plan for their future. An economic growth plan, fueled by residential and business sections in their owned area, is sure to keep the duel tribe prosperous for the short-term future. And dozens upon dozens of jobs are available within the tribe, providing ample employment for all. With so many tribes formed due to external factors which are harmful, such as war and disease, it is comforting to find one tribe that was formed simply because of niceties. The Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community may not have as interesting or grueling of a history as other tribes, but they do have one of the longest standing foundations for success. Being nice to one another and capitalizing on god-given talents is a great way to survive throughout life, and the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community have both. Their beautiful artwork and plan for future economic wealth are two factors that will help lead them through the twenty-first century and beyond.