California Pomo Indians At Home Real Photo Postcard

William and Mary Poma, identified as members of the Poma (Pomo) Native American people, were captured in Pasadena, California, in April 1927. The Pomo are indigenous to Northern California, with their traditional territories historically encompassing parts of present-day Sonoma, Mendocino, and Lake counties. Their presence in Southern California, specifically Pasadena, highlights the broader trend of Native American migration from ancestral lands, often driven by economic necessity, displacement, or the search for new opportunities during the early 20th century.

This era represented a challenging period for Native Americans in California and nationwide, characterized by federal assimilation policies aimed at integrating indigenous populations into mainstream American society. Despite these pressures, Pomo communities diligently worked to preserve their cultural heritage, languages, and traditions. Postcards featuring individuals like William and Mary offer valuable historical insights into the lives of Native Americans navigating a rapidly changing world, often beyond the confines of reservations or rancherias.