Our Story, Our Sovereignty.
A sovereign nation, federally recognized since 1916. A constitutional government, seated October 1, 2024.
California Valley Miwok Tribe.
The California Valley Miwok Tribe is a federally recognized sovereign nation, recognized continuously by the United States since 1916.
The tribe was formerly known as the Sheep Ranch Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians of California. In May 2001, the tribe legally adopted its current name — California Valley Miwok Tribe — and has been listed under that name in the United States Federal Register from that date forward.
On October 1, 2024, the Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted a Secretarial election under Section 16 of the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934. Eligible Participants voted to adopt the Constitution of the California Valley Miwok Tribe. That vote established the constitutional tribal government that serves the nation today.
A continuous nation, 1916 to today.
- 1906
- Congress authorizes the Bureau of Indian Affairs to purchase land for landless California Indians.
- 1915
- Federal agent John Terrell conducts the census of the Sheepranch Indians, identifying thirteen surviving members.
- 1916
- The United States acquires approximately 0.92 acres at Sheep Ranch, California, held in trust as the Sheep Ranch Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians of California — the federal beginning of continuous recognition.
- 1934
- Congress passes the Indian Reorganization Act, providing the federal framework under which tribes may organize and adopt constitutional governments.
- 2001
- The tribe legally adopts the name California Valley Miwok Tribe. From this date forward, the tribe is listed under that name in the United States Federal Register.
- October 1, 2024
- The Bureau of Indian Affairs conducts a Secretarial election under Section 16 of the Indian Reorganization Act. Eligible Participants vote to adopt the Constitution of the California Valley Miwok Tribe. The first constitutional Tribal Council is seated.
The CVMT Tribal Council.
Elected and seated under the constitution adopted October 2024.
A living nation.
The California Valley Miwok Tribe is a present-day community — children, elders, professionals, students, parents — exercising the inherent right of self-government affirmed under federal law.
The work of the constitutional government adopted in October 2024 is to build the institutions that serve our citizens: the standing committees of the tribe, the Tribal Council, and the continuing government-to-government relationship with the United States.
Tribal Citizen Resources
Enrolled CVMT citizens can sign in to access constitution documents, meeting minutes, and committee records.