- Rich Cultural Heritage: Preserved their Native American customs and traditions, incorporating influences from European and African roots.
- Clan System: Organized along matrilineal clans with a complex social structure and leadership roles.
- Religious Practices: Combination of traditional Native American beliefs, Christianity, and herbal medicine.
- Quilt-making: Known for their intricate and unique quilted art passed down through generations.
- Basket Weaving: Skilled in creating functional and ornamental baskets using indigenous materials.
- Pottery: Produced distinctive clay pottery influenced by Native American and European techniques.
- Woodcarving: Expert woodworkers crafted sculptures, utensils, and furniture.
- Traditional Foods: Corn, squash, beans, and other locally grown produce formed the basis of their diet complemented with hunting and fishing.
- Ceremonies: Held ceremonies and gatherings for festivals, social events, and religious practices.
- Music and Dance: Vibrant music and dance with handmade instruments, including rattles and drums, were central to their cultural expression.
- Oral Traditions: Preserved history, folklore, and cultural knowledge through storytelling and legends passed down orally from generation to generation.
- Spiritual Beliefs: Honored the Great Spirit, known as "the One Above," through prayers and rituals.
Livelihood and Farming:
- Subsistence Farming: Primarily depended on small-scale farming for corn, beans, squash, and various crops.
- Hunting and Gathering: Supplemented their diet by hunting deer, rabbits, and fishing in local rivers.
- Forestry: Utilized the abundant forest resources for building materials, crafting tools, and gathering wild fruits and nuts.
- Crafts and Trade: Skilled artisans crafted baskets, pottery, and furniture, which they traded with neighboring communities.
Language:
- Lumbee Language: Traditionally spoke Lumbee, a Siouan-Catawban language, but English is now the primary language.
Education and Healthcare:
- Preserving Culture: Established educational institutions and cultural centers to preserve the Lumbee language, history, and traditions.
- Healthcare Integration: Collaborated with healthcare organizations to address the unique healthcare needs of the Lumbee community.
Challenges and Activism:
- Historical Discrimination: Faced challenges related to discrimination, land rights, and cultural preservation.
- Activism: Actively engaged in advocacy and activism for civil rights, land rights, and cultural recognition.
- Social and Economic Development: Worked to improve socio-economic conditions through community-based initiatives.