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Poarch Creek Pow Wow (Poarch Creek Indians) tribe in alabama — PCI is known for many cultural events, like the Poarch Creek Pow Wow. (Poarch Creek Indians)

Despite a scattering of indigenous peoples in the 16th century, the Poarch Creek Indians (PCI) have lived together for almost 200 years around the land where the current reservation is in Poarch, Alabama—less than one hour from Mobile.

They became federally recognized in 1984 and remain the only Tribe in Alabama with this designation. They have reinvested in 40+ businesses across a range of industries like OWA Parks and Resort, Wind Creek Hospitality and more.

Keep reading for all you need to know about the economic and cultural impact of PCI.

History of the Poarch Creek Indians

Poarch Creek Indians, Chief Calvin McGhee with President Kennedy — Chief Calvin McGhee with President Kennedy (Poarch Creek Indians)

Legend has it that centuries ago, the Creator sent down a cedar pole and instructed Poarch Creek Indian ancestors to stand the pole upright and travel in the direction it fell.

They followed the pole east, reached the coast and asked the Creator if that’s where they were supposed to live.

However, they were told to follow the pole one more day and night. The pole fell to the west and they followed.

At dawn, they discovered a rich and fertile land. Lo and behold, the pole stood upright.

They were home.

Where are the Poarch Creek Indians now?

Unlike many Native American tribes, the Poarch Creek Indians were not removed from their tribal lands and have lived together for nearly 200 years.

Their reservation is in Poarch, Alabama—located in Escambia County, about 57 miles east of Mobile.

The Tribe’s determination to keep both their identity and inherent right to self-govern is evident. This is shown by their continued efforts to preserve their Tribal culture. They also strive to improve their community.

Here’s a glance at some of these efforts:

Economic impact

PCI provides top-notch federal services. (Poarch Creek Indians)

The relationship between Alabama and its only federally-recognized Tribe has deepened into a mutually beneficial partnership.

The Tribe reinvests in 40+ businesses across a range of industries including:

Plus, PCI has created more than 6,000 jobs and reinvested $1 billion nationally in capital spending over the past nine years.

Tourism

Thanks to this economic impact, PCI has become a crucial part of Alabama tourism.

The role PCI plays in the tourism market spans various attractions. From Wind Creek Hospitality’s 11 distinct properties in the U.S. and the Caribbean to the award-wining OWA Parks and Resort’s waterpark and theme park, it reaches families and communities far beyond Alabama.

Wondering what attractions in our state are operated by PCI? Here are a few:

Community impact

Poarch Creek Indians community service day — PCI community service day (Poarch Creek Indians)

Dedicated to sharing with those in need, PCI contributes to many charitable organizations. Through generous giving, PCI has helped fund the arts, youth sports, senior care and emergency support services.

Since 2021, the Tribe has donated $37 million to charities.

A few ways PCI has given back: