The Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community
is comprised of two Native American tribes: The Pima,
or "Akimel Au-Authm," (River People); and the Maricopa,
or "Xalychidom Piipaash," (People who live toward the water)

The Maricopa tribes were small bands that lived along the
lower Gila and Colorado rivers. In the early 1800's they
migrated toward Pima villages. The Pima, known as a friendly
tribe, established a relationship with the Maricopa. Both
tribes provided protection against the Yuman and Apache tribes

The Pima believe they are the descendants of the "Hohokam,"
(those who have gone) an ancient civilization who lived in
Arizona nearly two thousand years, dating as far back as 300BC.
The Hohokam farmed the Salt River Valley and created elaborate
canal irrigation systems throughout the valley area; that system,
now modernized is still used today.

The Pima's are well known for their basket weaving techniques,
intricately woven they are made watertight. The Maricopa, known
for their red clay pottery work, created various forms of jars
and bowls. Both forms of artwork are made of natural materials
and can be viewed at the Community's Hoo-hoogam Ki Museum.

The Pima and Maricopa tribes together, comprise the Salt River
Pima-Maricopa Indian Community