Description
Long before European explorers came to the Americas, the Native American, known as the Waxhaws, inhabited the area near Cane Creek in the Catawba River Valley. The origin of their name is not known for sure, but it may mean People of the Cane, in the common trade language used by native groups. By 1720, most of the Waxhaws had been wiped out by the dreaded diseases brought over by European settlers, particularly smallpox. The rest were decimated during the Yamasee Wars, which pitted them against South Carolina colonists and larger, more powerful, tribes.
Language
Siouan
Culture
The Waxhaws were referred to as “flatheads” by early explorers and other natives. This nickname no doubt came from the tribes harmless practice of placing small sandbags on the foreheads of infants, resulting in wide-set eyes and a reshaped, flat forehead. The typical Waxhaw dwellings were similar to those of other peoples of the region. They were covered in bark. Ceremonial buildings, however, were usually thatched with reeds and bullgrass. The people held ceremonial dances, tribal meetings, and other important rites in these council houses.