Summary
Renaming of Indian Garden to Havasupai Gardens
A popular spot in Grand Canyon National Park has been renamed to honor the Havasupai Tribe. The spot, formerly known as the Indian Garden, will now be called Havasupai Gardens, according to the National Park Service. This change occurred after the U.S. Board of Geographic Names voted unanimously to approve a formal request submitted by the NPS on behalf of the Havasupai Tribe.
Historical Significance of the Area
The newly named Havasupai Gardens is located along the Bright Angel Trail, a popular route frequently traversed by day hikers and backpackers. Superintendent Ed Keable expressed pride in collaborating with the Havasupai Tribal Council to rename this culturally significant location. He stated, “The Havasupai people have actively occupied this area since time immemorial, before the land’s designation as a National Park and until the park forcibly removed them in 1926. This renaming is long overdue. It is a measure of respect for the undue hardship imposed by the park on the Havasupai people.”
The National Park Service (NPS) is currently in the process of updating signs, the website, and other informational materials. A rededication ceremony is planned for early spring 2023.
Initially, the area was known as Ha’a Gyoh; however, the Havasupai community was eventually displaced, with the last resident being forcibly removed in 1928. This eviction has had detrimental and lasting impacts on Havasupai families and their descendants. Chairman Thomas Siyuja, Sr. noted, “Every year, approximately 100,000 people visit the area while hiking the Bright Angel Trail, largely unaware of this history. The renaming of this sacred place to Havasupai Gardens will finally right that wrong.”
Notable Examples of Landmark Renaming
This renaming initiative is not an isolated incident. It mirrors other significant landmark renamings aimed at acknowledging native roots. For instance, in 2015, Mount McKinley in Alaska was renamed to Denali, The New York Times reported at that time, restoring an important Alaska Native name.
