History of Native American Heritage Month
Native American Heritage Month honors the contributions, culture, and modern community of the first peoples of our land. Native American Heritage Month began as Native American History Week in the 1980s and in 1990, President George H.W. Bush designated November “National American Indian Heritage Month”. The month is known by variations of this name, including Native American History Month. For more information, visit https://nativeamericanheritagemonth.gov/
The Tongva / Gabrielino Tribes
In Palos Verdes, our land was inhabited by the Tongva, later known as the Gabrielino Indians after the arrival of Spanish Missionaries. One of the Peninsula’s original settlements, Chowigna, was located near present-day Malaga Cove and existed for over 7,000 years. Artifacts from this settlement can be seen at the Southwest Museum of the American Indian and the Redondo Beach Historical Museum. While the Gabrieleño tribes are not currently federally recognized, the descendents of these tribal members keep their history and culture alive throughout Los Angeles County and beyond.
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