The Seminole Indians of Florida

In the winter of 1880‑81 a diligent investigator ventured into the remote swamps and rivers of southern Florida, tasked with counting and describing a dwindling community of Seminole Indians. Relying on patience, a sparse command of the language, and the assistance of a single informant, he catalogued two hundred and eight individuals across thirty‑seven families, noting where each camp was nestled among the Everglades, the Miami River and other natural landmarks. The report offers a careful census—names, ages, and residences—alongside vivid sketches of appearance, daily habits and the modest material culture that survived in these isolated settlements.

Beyond the numbers, the author records the tribe’s social customs, familial structures and glimpses of their religious practices, always aware of the limits imposed by language barriers and the fleeting nature of his encounters. His observations, though provisional, lay a groundwork for future scholars seeking a deeper understanding of the Seminole’s resilience and way of life in the late nineteenth century. The narrative balances factual detail with a respectful tone, inviting listeners to glimpse a world that few outsiders have ever entered.