The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska: The Process of Restoration of a Federally Terminated Tribe

The Northern Ponca, a small Plains farming and hunting tribe were legislatively terminated as a federally recognized tribe in 1962. Less than a decade after their termination, they reorganized in an attempt to reverse this decision, and proceeded with legal action to restore their status as a federally recognized tribe. During the 30-year period during which their federal status was lost, their population dispersed, their economic status, health, and general welfare declined, and their ability to practice their culture diminished. This article documents their efforts to restore their federally recognized tribal status, which would enable them to resume eligibility for services to which other Native American tribes are entitled. Following a review of aboriginal Ponca culture and the history of their relations with the United States government, data on the contemporary Northern Ponca are presented. The complex process of achieving restoration is outlined, from the formation of a non-profit tribal corporation to the development of the Ponca Restoration Act. The authors have served, as consultants to and witnesses for the tribe and assisted in preparation of materials for use by the federal government. The Ponca Restoration Act was signed by President Bush on October 31, 1990.