About Jumano Indian Clothing

The Jumano Indian tribe, now extinct, lived in Texas during the 16th to 18th centuries. They lived peacefully with the Spanish settlers arriving in the area and took pains to mimic the lifestyles they encountered. Not only did they make changes in their clothing choices, but also their language and behavior.

Geography

For more than 200 years, one portion of the tribe lived near the Arkansas River, the other along the Rio Grande. These areas were extremely harsh. Wild animals frequently made their way into the camps, and bugs carried diseases. The Jumano eventually picked clothing that protected them from the elements, such as long skirts for the woman and moccasins for everyone.

Types

Men in the Jumano tribe favored nudity and tattoos, even after the tribe learned how to make their own clothing. At times the men wore moccasins made from deer hide and feathers in their hair. The women were more likely to wear clothing made from deer or buffalo hide. They wore nothing above the waist save for intricate tattoos, but favored long skirts and moccasins.

Features

The Jumano traded animal hides and shells to other tribes for feathers, shells and copper pieces.

Theories/Speculation

Diego Perez, a well-known Spanish settler, hypothesized during the late 16th century that the Jumano tribe mimicked the behavior of villagers living in nearby Patarabuey. Perez wrote that the men acted and wore clothing similar to the settlers. He also believed that the tribe adapted its language to be more like that of settlers living near Rio Concho.

Considerations

Another part of the tribe lived in what is now New Mexico. They wore clothing similar to other Indian tribes, with tight pants and skirts made of deer skin. Some scholars believe this was another sect of the Jumano tribe, while others claim the real Jumano went naked for most of their lives.