Clay pottery shard with applied decorations
Found in a cave shelter near Alpine, Texas
M39.56.1c
Gift of C. A. Bryant

Texas lies within the three areas in which Indian civilization reached its highest development in North America. These were the Mayan civilization of Mexico and Central America, the Pueblo of the upper Rio Grande, and the Mound Builders of the Mississippi Valley. There was not a dominant Texas Indian culture. The ways of life of these peoples differed even more widely from region to region than do those of modern people.

The family was the basic social organization in all Texas tribes. Each person in the tribe had specific roles. Women were obligated to gather fire wood, cook the meals, pack and carry all belongings when the tribe moved, and do all the menial chores around the camp. Children helped out in the camp. Men were responsible for hunting and fishing and either making war or preparing for war.

Although differences were many, there were certain cultural practices common to most, if not all Texas Indians. Family organization and religious beliefs in most instances were similar, whether the Indians were hunters of the plains or gardeners in the woodlands. Common to all was a basic belief in a supreme being or beings. Most incorporated a reverence for various aspects of nature - the sun, moon, wind, rain, or other natural occurrence. Some tribes held elaborate tribal ceremonies, where others were more individualistic in their religious practices.

Stone club heads found in Kauffman County, Texas
M39.3.1
Gift of M. F. Tharp