The Apalachee Indians are a historic Native American people whose descendants continue to live in Louisiana today. The Talimali Band of the Apalachee Indians of Louisiana preserves the culture, history, and traditions of the Apalachee people and works to ensure their legacy continues for future generations.

Following the 1704 Apalachee diaspora from Spanish Florida, many Apalachee families resettled along the Red River in present-day Louisiana. The Talimali Band traces its lineage to those documented historic communities.

Today, the Talimali Band engages in cultural preservation, educational outreach, archaeological consultation, and scholarship programs for Apalachee youth.

The Talimali Band has operated as a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization since 1995 and formally filed for federal recognition in 1996. The tribe continues to document its historical continuity and advocate for recognition.

Founded in Pineville, Louisiana by Chief Gilmer Bennett, the Talimali Band of the Apalachee Indians of Louisiana is the original Apalachee tribal organization established in that community. The tribe has remained rooted in Pineville since its founding and continues to operate from that historic location today. Prior to his passing, Chief Gilmer Bennett formally designated his son, Chief Arthur Bennett, as his successor. Chief Arthur Bennett now serves as Chief of the Talimali Band, continuing the leadership and legacy established by his father.

To read more about the historical origins of the Apalachee people and our migration to Louisiana, visit our History of the Apalachee Indians page.