From the valley of the old women a vibrant story unfolds. Welcome to the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians. For over 10000 years this land has been home to the Kumeyaay people. They were skilled horticulturists hunters and gatherers. They greeted the first Spanish explorers in 1542. Their lives centered around the San Diego River. Abundant water fostered a thriving community.
The Viejas Band shared the Capitan Grande Reservation with the Barona Band. This land was rich and fertile. However their peaceful existence was disrupted. The city of San Diego needed water. They built El Capitan Reservoir. This flooded much of the Capitan Grande Reservation. The Viejas and Barona Bands were displaced from their ancestral home.
In 1934 a new reservation was established for the Viejas Band. It was a smaller area the Viejas Valley. It is known as the Baron Long Reservation. It is about 1609 acres. The name Viejas comes from El Valle de Las Viejas. This translates to The Valley of the Old Women. Despite the hardship the Viejas people persevered. They rebuilt their lives. They created a thriving community.
Today the Viejas Band is a federally recognized tribe. They are approximately 394 enrolled members. Many of them still live on the reservation. The reservation features scrub oaks and chaparral. The Viejas Band has shown remarkable resilience and innovation. They run a successful casino resort. This allows them to support their community. They also have an outlet center and recreational vehicle parks. Their economic success is a testament to their strength and determination.
The Viejas Band is more than just a community. They are keepers of a rich cultural heritage. They celebrate their traditions. They honor their ancestors. They are a powerful example of perseverance in the face of adversity. Their story is one of survival resilience and triumph. They continue to thrive here in the Valley of the Old Women.