Commissioners Court acknowledge Lipan Apache Tribe

Sierra Martin | Managing Editor

HAYS COUNTY – On Tuesday, Dec. 21, the Hays County Commissioners court acknowledged the Lipan Apache Tribe and their contributions to the state of Texas.

The Lipan Apache Tribe have lived in Texas and northern Mexico for more than 300 years. They have entered into treaties, alliances and pledges of friendship with Spain, Mexico, the German confederation and the United States.

A tribal government represents the Lipan Apache Tribe with a constitution and bylaws and the tribe is a voting member of the national congress of American Indians.

According to commissioners, the eagle has remained sacred to the tribe and the US 5th circuit court of appeals has acknowledged the religious and legal rights of more than 200 tribal members to use eagle feathers in their ceremonial practices. The Lipan Tribe have also served in the Armed forces of the United States during WWI, WWII, the Korean War, Vietnam War and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

In addition, members of the Lipan Apache Tribe have served as police officers, ministers, nurses and schoolteachers.

“With a rich heritage, the Lipan Apaches have maintained a strong sense of identity and community and they continue to make a valuable contribution to the culture of the Lone Star State,” the court’s resolution said.

Bernard Barcena, the Tribal Chairman for the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas, thanked Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra and County Commissioners Debbie Ingalsbe and Mark Jones and spoke of the history of the tribe in the area.

“I would like to add this area up here was a pretty big population in the 1830s. Very important with Austin, San Antonio and the Lockhart area…” said Barcena. “And a lot of family members here can trace their line back to that time and the ranchers that were here.”

The live stream for Hays County Commissioners Court will only be available during scheduled Commissioners Court meetings, which are typically held every Tuesday morning beginning at 9 a.m. unless otherwise posted. Videos are archived on their website.

Meetings of the Commissioners Court take place in the Hays County Historical Courthouse, located at 111 E. San Antonio St., San Marcos, Texas.