Wilton Rancheria: A Living Legacy in Elk Grove

Wilton Rancheria proudly holds the title of California’s Capitol Tribe. Their citizens are descendants of the Penutian linguistic family and are primarily Miwok and Nisenan people, occupying the Sacramento Valley since time immemorial. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Wilton Rancheria endured forced missionization and epidemics. They established a federally recognized land base in 1928 with a 38.77-acre tract in Wilton. However, the 1958 Rancheria Act led to the termination of their federal recognition and trust land status, leaving the Tribe landless for decades.

In 1991, Tribal members reorganized their government, and after a hard-fought legal battle led by Tribal Elders, federal recognition was restored in 2009. Subsequent years saw significant milestones: the adoption of a modern constitution in 2011, the development of the Sky River Casino in Elk Grove, and the 2024 reclamation of 77 acres of ancestral land placed into federal trust. Their journey is marked by resilience and strength and their achievements underscore the Tribe’s ongoing commitment to cultural preservation. For the full historical timeline, click here.

There are four distinct branches of Wilton Rancheria: a General Council, an Executive branch, a Legislative branch, and a Judicial branch.

General Council - The General Council of Wilton Rancheria is the governing body made up of all enrolled members of the Tribe who are 18 years of age or older.

Executive Branch – Also referred to as The Office of the Chair, the Executive Branch is led by Chairman, Jesus Tarango, and Vice-Chair, Raquel Williams. The Executive Branch oversees the Tribe’s six departments: Cultural Preservation, Education, Enrollment, Health, Housing, and Indian Child Welfare.

Legislative Branch – Serving as the governing body of the Tribe, the Legislative Branch is represented by the Tribal Council with duties including enacting laws, approving budgets, advancing public health, education, charitable partnerships, and more.

Judicial Branch – The Judicial Branch is the part of the Tribe’s government responsible for interpreting and applying Tribal laws.

The early inhabitants of Wilton Rancheria spoke the Nisenan language and maintained a close connection to the land, nature, and seasons. Ceremonies, storytelling, dancing, and the practice of traditional arts have long been central to their cultural identity. Today, the Tribe is committed to preserving these traditions for generations to come through educational programs, community gatherings, and cultural initiatives. Language preservation efforts, traditional ceremonies, and intergenerational teaching ensure that the knowledge, values, and spirit of the Miwok and Nisenan people continue to thrive within the community and beyond.

Wilton Rancheria’s leadership in cultural preservation, community empowerment, and economic development continues to leave a lasting impact not only on their citizens but also on the wider region. We invite you to continue learning, engaging, and celebrating the living legacy of Wilton Rancheria; understanding the roots of our community helps us all grow stronger together.