Katherine Siva Saubel

Katherine Siva Saubel

Katherine Siva Saubel (March 7, 1920 – November 1, 2011) was a Native American scholar, educator, and tribal leader of the Cahuilla people. She was a prominent figure in the preservation and revitalization of the Cahuilla language and culture.

Early Life

Katherine Siva Saubel was born on March 7, 1920, on the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation in Southern California. She was raised in a traditional Cahuilla household and was fluent in the Cahuilla language from a young age.

Education and Career

Saubel dedicated her life to the preservation of the Cahuilla language and culture. She collaborated with linguists and anthropologists to document the Cahuilla language, contributing significantly to its revitalization. She co-authored several books and articles on the Cahuilla language and ethnobotany, including a Cahuilla dictionary.

Contributions to Cahuilla Culture

Katherine Siva Saubel was instrumental in the establishment of the Malki Museum, the first museum on a Native American reservation in California. The museum focuses on the history and culture of the Cahuilla people. Saubel served as the museum's president for many years, promoting the education and preservation of Cahuilla heritage.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her life, Saubel received numerous awards and honors for her work in cultural preservation. She was recognized by various organizations and institutions for her contributions to Native American studies and the preservation of indigenous languages.

Legacy

Katherine Siva Saubel's work has had a lasting impact on the Cahuilla community and the broader field of Native American studies. Her efforts have ensured that the Cahuilla language and culture continue to be studied and appreciated by future generations.

See Also

• Cahuilla language
• Malki Museum
• Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeño Indians
• Native American studies