The presence of Gypsy and Traveler communities in the United States is a complex and often misunderstood topic. This article aims to provide an accurate overview of these diverse groups, their history, and their unique cultural identities. We will explore the various Romani and Traveler groups that have established themselves in America, addressing the question: Are There Gypsy Travelers In The United States?
Traveling People’s identities are often threatened by misinformation spread online and in popular media. This article strives to correct inaccuracies and present an unbiased view of traveling life as it has unfolded since their ancestors arrived in the New World. Preserving ethnic heritage and pride in one’s identity are valuable assets. Being of Gypsy or Traveler background is special and should be treasured alongside language, customs, and cultural values.
A Brief Overview of Gypsy and Traveler Groups in the United States
Several distinct groups identify as Gypsy or Traveler in the United States, each with its own history, traditions, and cultural nuances. These groups have diverse origins, languages, and customs, reflecting their unique journeys and experiences.
- Cale: These are Spanish Gypsies, or Gitanos, primarily found in the metropolitan centers of the East and West coasts. They form a small community.
- English Travelers: This group is fairly amorphous, possibly formed along similar lines as Roaders, but taking shape already in England before their emigration to the US starting in the early 1880s. They associate mainly with Romnichels, and their boundaries and numbers are uncertain.
- Hungarian-Slovak: These are mainly sedentary Gypsies found primarily in the industrial cities of the northern U.S. They number in the few thousands and are noted for playing “Gypsy music” in cafes, nightclubs, and restaurants.
- Irish Travelers: This is a peripatetic group that is ethnically Irish and does not identify itself as “Gypsy,” although sometimes called “Irish Gypsies.” They are widely scattered but somewhat concentrated in the southern states. Estimates vary, but about 10,000 should be close to the actual numbers.
Alt text: Irish Traveller family standing in front of their traditional caravan in Ennis, Ireland.
- Ludar: These Gypsies from the Banat area, also called Rumanian Gypsies, arrived after 1880. They have about the same number of families as the Rom, but actual numbers are unknown.
- Roaders or Roadies: These are native-born Americans who have led a traveling life similar to that of the Gypsies and Travelers but who were not originally descended from those groups. Numbers are unknown as not all families are studied.
- Rom: These Gypsies of East European origin arrived after 1880. Mostly urban, they are scattered across the entire country. They are one of the larger groups in the US, possibly in the 55-60,000 range.
- Romnichels: These are English Gypsies who arrived beginning in 1850. Scattered across the entire country, they tend to be somewhat more rural than the other Gypsy groups. Many families are now on their way to being assimilated, hence the estimation of numbers depends on the criteria used.
- Scottish Travelers: Ethnically Scottish, they have been separated for centuries from mainstream society in Scotland, where they were known as Tinkers. Some came to Canada after 1850 and to the United States in appreciable numbers after 1880. Over 100 distinct clans have been identified, but total numbers are not known.
- Sinti: This is a little-studied early group of German Gypsies in the United States consisting of few families heavily assimilated with both non-Gypsy and Romnichel populations. No figures are available.
- Yenisch: This is a mostly assimilated group of ethnic Germans, misidentified as Gypsies, who formed an occupational caste of basket makers and founded an entire community in Pennsylvania after their immigration starting in 1840. Because of assimilation, current numbers are impossible to determine.
Recent Immigration and Contemporary Challenges
Since 1970, several Gypsy groups have immigrated due to unrest and renewed persecution in Eastern Europe after the collapse of Communism. They have come from Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, Poland, Romania, the former Yugoslavian area, and possibly other countries. They number in the few thousands by now, but their numbers are likely to increase. These newer immigrant groups face challenges related to integration, cultural preservation, and discrimination.
The Importance of Accurate Representation
It is crucial to approach the topic of Gypsy and Traveler communities with respect and sensitivity. Generalizations and stereotypes can perpetuate harmful biases and misunderstandings. Instead, it is important to recognize the diversity within these communities and to learn about their unique histories and experiences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question “are there Gypsy travelers in the United States?” is a resounding yes. Numerous distinct Romani and Traveler groups have established themselves in the US, each with its own unique history, traditions, and cultural identity. Understanding and respecting these communities is essential for fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. Further research and engagement with these communities can help to dispel misconceptions and promote a more accurate understanding of their place in American society.
