Marriage & Family Life

The life ways of the early Creeks were community based. Every Creek was a member of one of several clans and family ties were clan-based. Marriages were required to be with someone from a different clan. In Road To Disappearance, Debo gives detailed description of early Creek marriage protocol which illustrates how the complex family structure served to protect the interests of women and children. In brief: Marriages were sometimes arranged by the clan, but usually the man selected his own wife. A protocol was followed whereby female members of the man's family first approached the women of the girl's family. They in turn referred the proposal to the woman's brothers and maternal uncles. If the men of her family approved, word was sent back to the man's family. The man then sent presents to the women of the girl's family and if they were accepted, the marriage was consummated.

The girl remained with her family and the man went to live with her as husband and wife. But the marriage was not permanent until he had proven himself to be an able provider. To do this, he must have planted and gathered a crop, brought her a supply of game and provided her a house. Like nearly every labor performed by the Creeks, the house would be constructed as a communal enterprise under the direction of the town officials. During this time of temporary marriage, usually of some months, the couple could separate at will. Since the Green Corn Ceremony occurred at the time of the corn harvest, final recognition of the marriage was often celebrated as part of the sacred ceremonies. If a man neglected to work in her cornfield during succeeding years, a wife was released from her marriage obligations. Divorce could be secured by either party but was rare in families with children. In the case of divorce, the children and the property remained in the possession of the wife.

Children were members of their mother's clan. The discipline and education of children was the responsibility of the mother and her family. An older maternal clan uncle or grandfather would teach a young boy the things he needed to learn rather than his father. While the father was responsible for providing food and protection for his children, and would be treated respectfully in his home, his role as a teacher and mentor would be on behalf of his sisters' children.

Indian family life was much more relaxed and less structured than in modern times. Before eating and other activities, the day would begin at dawn with a bath in the nearest river or stream. Meals were not necessarily eaten at a particular time when all would come together, however the largest meal would have been prepared by early afternoon. Food would be kept ready so that anyone could find something to eat when hungry. A thick, rich gruel made of corn called 'Sofkee' was a favorite for everyday and special occasions and would be kept on hand at all times.

Demonstration Idea: A facsimile of traditional Sofkee can be made from canned hominy and makes a good addition to any student presentation. In a pan, mash and heat the hominy, including the liquid and a pinch of baking soda. Pass out small portions in a cup with ice-cream spoon for sampling.