Welcome Letter from the Chief

Dear Relative,

Greetings and welcome.

On behalf of the Tribal Council and the entire Cheraw Catawba Band of Florida, I extend my heartfelt welcome to you and thank you for your interest in our tribal community. It is an honor to greet those who are seeking to reconnect with their heritage, strengthen family ties, and help preserve the living legacy of our ancestors.

The Cheraw Catawba Band of Florida represents the descendants of Native families whose roots trace back to the Cheraw and Catawba people of the Carolinas. Over generations, many of our ancestors migrated into the Florida Panhandle, establishing close-knit communities where they worked, worshipped, and raised families. Despite the challenges of history, including discrimination, misclassification, and the pressures of assimilation, our people maintained their identity, traditions, and sense of community. Today, we continue that legacy through cultural preservation, historical documentation, education, and community engagement.

Our organization is more than a membership body—it is a family. We are committed to bringing together descendants of these historic communities, preserving the stories of our elders, documenting our genealogical connections, and ensuring that the heritage of our people is honored for generations to come. Through gatherings, educational programs, and cultural events, we seek to strengthen our shared identity and provide opportunities for our members to learn, serve, and lead.

If you are considering membership, we encourage you to explore your family history and the stories passed down through generations. Many of our families share surnames and ancestral connections that link us back to the historic settlements of Scott Town in Jackson County, Scotts Ferry in Calhoun County, Woods in Liberty County across the Apalachicola River, and Simmonsville/Mt. Zion in Holmes County. These communities formed the foundation of our presence in Florida and remain an important part of our collective history.

We welcome individuals who are committed to honoring this heritage and contributing positively to the life of the tribe. Membership carries both pride and responsibility to uphold the dignity of our ancestors, to respect one another, and to work together for the benefit of our community.

As Chief of the Cheraw Catawba Band of Florida, I am deeply committed to strengthening our tribal structure, expanding opportunities for our members, and building partnerships that uplift our people. Our future depends on the participation and dedication of those who believe in the importance of preserving our history and empowering our community.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about the Cheraw Catawba Band of Florida. We look forward to welcoming you, learning your family story, and walking this path of heritage and community together.

With respect and warm regards,

La’Micheal V. Eddie

Chief

Cheraw Catawba Band of Florida, Inc.

“Honoring Our Ancestors, Strengthening Our Families, Building Our Future.”