Origin of the Name

The word "Pomo" comes from a term in the Pomoan languages meaning “those who live at red earth hole.” It originally described a specific village near Clear Lake in present-day California, but it was later applied by anthropologists and settlers to all related groups that shared linguistic and cultural ties. The Pomo did not originally call themselves by this name; they identified by their specific village or band.

Range

The Pomo traditionally inhabited northwestern California, especially around Clear Lake, the Russian River Valley, and along the Pacific Coast. Their territory extended from the redwood forests of Mendocino County inland to Lake County, giving them access to diverse ecosystems: ocean, river, lake, and forest.

Diet

The Pomo had a rich diet based on the varied environments of their homeland. Acorns were a staple food, ground into meal and made into mush or bread. They also gathered seeds, roots, berries, and nuts. Fish such as salmon and trout were caught in rivers and lakes, while the coastal bands harvested clams, mussels, and seaweed. Deer, rabbits, and waterfowl provided important sources of meat.

Home Type

The Pomo built homes suited to their environment. In the coastal regions, they used redwood bark to construct cone-shaped houses. Inland groups often built semi-subterranean homes with earth covering, which provided insulation. Temporary brush shelters were also common during seasonal food-gathering trips.

A depiction of Pomo homes

Culture

The Pomo are most famous for their beautiful baskets, often decorated with feathers, beads, and shells. These baskets were used for carrying food, cooking, ceremonies, and as gifts. The Pomo also had a rich tradition of myths and stories that explained the world around them. For example, some stories told how Coyote helped shape the land or how the sun and moon came to be. These myths were passed down by storytellers to teach lessons and connect the people to nature. Ceremonies were important too, often led by shamans (spiritual healers) who prayed for good health, rain, or success in gathering food. Traditional dances, songs, and seasonal celebrations helped keep the community together and honored the spirits of the natural world.

Pomo Basketry

Pomo basketry is considered some of the finest in the world, both for its artistry and craftsmanship. The Pomo wove baskets from local plants such as willow, sedge roots, bulrush, and redbud, each material chosen for its strength, color, or flexibility. Some baskets were large and sturdy for carrying food, while others were tightly woven and waterproof for cooking with hot stones. What made Pomo baskets especially famous were their decorative designs and delicate detail. Skilled weavers added feathers from quail or meadowlarks, beads made from clamshells, and even tiny pieces of abalone shell to create shimmering patterns. Some baskets were so small and finely made that they could hold water even though they were no bigger than a thimble. Basket weaving was usually done by women, and the knowledge was passed down through generations. Beyond being practical tools, baskets were also spiritual objects, used in ceremonies, given as gifts, and traded with other tribes. Today, Pomo baskets are treasured as both cultural symbols and works of art, preserving an important tradition that continues among Pomo descendants.

A depiction of Pomo baskets

A Special Pomo Myth

One well-known Pomo myth tells the story of Coyote and the creation of the world. In the beginning, the earth was covered with water, and the animals had no place to live. Coyote, who was clever and tricky, worked with Turtle to bring up mud from the bottom of the sea. After many tries, Turtle finally surfaced with a bit of earth on his back. Coyote spread the mud and made it grow until it became dry land where people and animals could live. In some versions, Coyote also helped bring fire to the people and taught them how to survive. This myth shows the Pomo belief in the close connection between animals, humans, and the natural world, and it highlights Coyote’s role as both a helper and a trickster in their stories.

Warfare

The Pomo were generally not known for large-scale warfare but did engage in conflicts with neighboring tribes over territory, resources, or revenge. They used bows and arrows, clubs, and spears when necessary. Raids and ambushes were more common than organized battles.

History Timeline

• Pre-contact: Pomo thrived in small, independent villages, each with its own leaders and traditions, trading with neighbors and developing their famous basketry.
• 1800s: Russian and later American settlers disrupted their homelands. The arrival of settlers brought disease and displacement.
• 1850s: During the California Gold Rush, Pomo people were forced off their lands, massacred in violent attacks, and placed on reservations.
• 1870s: Many Pomo were confined to small reservations in California, including the Round Valley and Kashia reservations.
• 1900s: Despite challenges, the Pomo maintained traditions, especially basketry, which became highly valued by collectors and museums.
• Today: The Pomo are made up of multiple federally recognized tribes across northern California. They continue to preserve their cultural heritage, language revitalization, and basket weaving while participating in modern governance and economic development.

Discussion Questions

1. How did the Pomo’s environment shape their diet and housing styles?
2. Why are Pomo baskets considered some of the finest examples of Native American art?
3. How did contact with settlers and the Gold Rush affect the Pomo way of life?
4. What lessons can we learn from the Pomo about living in balance with the natural world?