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Show COMMIWIONEB OF INDIAN ASPAIRS. 65 records in each case, 206 names were eliminated, so that the ap-proved roll now contaim 451 Indians. This includes a number of tho Rocky Boy Indians tentatively allotted on the Blackfeet Reser-vation, most of whom will no doubt eventually remove to their own reservation, where they will have much better opportunities for self-support. The notable change brought about among the Rocky Boy Band since they have been permanently located presents in contrast a demonstration and emphasizes the importance not only of a fixed habitation for Indians but the probability of self-support when given opportunity and encouragement. For years a wandering band, they necessarily relied upon odd jobs and charity for subsistence, frequently a burden upon the white citizens of the localities in Montana where they roamed. The industry displayed and their accomplishments within the last two years present an object lesson and a warning of the conditions invited when Indiana are relieved of their lands and no longer have means of support. These Indiana are now doing things worth while, showing initiative and purpose not heretofore apparent. It must be remembered, however, that complete support can not be accomplished in a brief period, but they are making progress and the outlook is promising. Their long-time and faithful friends in Montana have reason to feel that loyalty to the Rocky Boys has been justified. ALABA- MA INDIANS OF TEXAS. The almost unknown band of Alabama Indians located about 18 miles east of the town of Livingston in southeastern Texas and num-bering approximately 206 persons, which has been ekeing out a bare existence for the past several decades, has been brought to my attention, and I sent a special representative to visit this band and make an investigation of their needs. These Indians are occupying 1,110 acres of land granted to them by the State of Texas more than a half century ago. The land, originally timbered but now partly cleared, can scarcely be called agricultural, and the crude methods employed by the Indians in attempting to raise crops has deteriorated it until it is now practically unproductive. It is reported that these Indians need more and better land, train-ing in agricultural pursuits, instmotion in domestic science, and some attention to their health condition. My plans for relieving this situation and providing the means whereby this neglected band may be made self-supporting will be embodied in a report to Congress at its next session. 18404-174 |