I am trying to find out what native american tribe my family came from, does any

Question:

I am trying to find out what native american tribe my family came from, does anyone know how to go about this?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: It depends on the tribe in question, be it Cherokee, Powtawtomi, Sioux, Chippewa, etc...You may want to try tracing back within the State your potential native ancestors resided at least 2 generations.

You can access the Dawes Roll (the 5 civilized tribes) online and search a name.
http://www.archives.gov/research/arc/... Click on the yellow search button to your left. After it brings up the next screen type DAWES ROLL. It will bring you to a number of links.
(This is the USA National Archive website).
They have a ton of resources and is where I discovered some major records linked to my native g-grandfather (by surprise)!

Also check the BLM: http://www.glorecords.blm.gov/
Will indicate if your ancestors had indian land patents with a name search. More hits by typing surname only.

Another option would be to get yourself on a Native American mailing list or message board. You can do this by going into http://www.rootsweb.com. Tap into rootsweb mailing list and there are a list of groups you can sign up into at no cost. Very helpful website.

Also check www.familysearch.com

Chippewa and Sioux are not included on the Dawes Roll, because they are their own tribal government and have thier own tribal laws. If I knew what tribe they may belong would help greatly. I hope this helps! Good luck with your search!