Nuwu — The People
Las Vegas
Paiute Tribe
Guardians of sacred lands, builders of tomorrow. A sovereign nation rooted in the deserts and mountains of Southern Nevada since time immemorial.
History of the Nuwu People
From the ancient desert pathways of the Tudinu to a thriving sovereign nation — the extraordinary story of resilience, sovereignty, and economic self-determination.
Ancient Origins
Ancient Times
Paiute Ancestors - The Tudinu
The Tudinu (or Desert People), ancestors of the Las Vegas Paiute Tribe, occupied the territory encompassing part of the Colorado River, most of Southeastern Nevada and parts of both Southern California and Utah. Outsiders often described the land as harsh, arid and barren; however, the Paiutes developed a sophisticated culture suited to the diverse land and its rich resources.
Ancient Times
Paiute Ancestors - The Tudinu
The Tudinu (or Desert People), ancestors of the Las Vegas Paiute Tribe, occupied the territory encompassing part of the Colorado River, most of Southeastern Nevada and parts of both Southern California and Utah. Outsiders often described the land as harsh, arid and barren; however, the Paiutes developed a sophisticated culture suited to the diverse land and its rich resources.
1100 A.D.
The Tudinu - Desert People
The Tudinu occupied a vast territory encompassing the Colorado River basin, most of Southeastern Nevada, and parts of Southern California and Utah. Living in groups of 30 to 50, they developed sophisticated knowledge of desert ecology — finding natural springs, cultivating crops, and conducting communal hunts. Southern Paiute women were renowned for extraordinary basket weaving, a skill passed mother to daughter for at least 9,000 years.
1100 A.D.
The Tudinu - Desert People
The Tudinu occupied a vast territory encompassing the Colorado River basin, most of Southeastern Nevada, and parts of Southern California and Utah. Living in groups of 30 to 50, they developed sophisticated knowledge of desert ecology — finding natural springs, cultivating crops, and conducting communal hunts. Southern Paiute women were renowned for extraordinary basket weaving, a skill passed mother to daughter for at least 9,000 years.
Time Immemorial
Nuvagantu - Where Snow Sits
The Spring Mountains (Mount Charleston), known as Nuvagantu, served as the sacred creation site of the Southern Paiute people. The Salt Songs — a sacred 142-song cycle describing a spiritual journey across ancestral lands — connected the Nuwu to the landscape they called Puaxant Tuvip, or "Power Land." Migratory routes followed Snow Mountain in summer and the Las Vegas Valley in winter.
Time Immemorial
Nuvagantu - Where Snow Sits
The Spring Mountains (Mount Charleston), known as Nuvagantu, served as the sacred creation site of the Southern Paiute people. The Salt Songs — a sacred 142-song cycle describing a spiritual journey across ancestral lands — connected the Nuwu to the landscape they called Puaxant Tuvip, or "Power Land." Migratory routes followed Snow Mountain in summer and the Las Vegas Valley in winter.
Establishment & Sovereignty
Dec 30, 1911
The Las Vegas Paiute Colony
Ranch owner Helen J. Stewart deeded 10 acres of her spring-fed land in downtown Las Vegas to the Paiutes, establishing the Las Vegas Paiute Colony. A school opened in the fall of 1912. Living conditions remained very poor until the 1960s, when the federal government built homes, paved streets, and brought city water.
Dec 30, 1911
The Las Vegas Paiute Colony
Ranch owner Helen J. Stewart deeded 10 acres of her spring-fed land in downtown Las Vegas to the Paiutes, establishing the Las Vegas Paiute Colony. A school opened in the fall of 1912. Living conditions remained very poor until the 1960s, when the federal government built homes, paved streets, and brought city water.
1934 & 1970
Paiutes Achieve Sovereignty
The Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 provided the framework for tribal self-governance. On July 22, 1970, the Las Vegas Paiute Tribal Constitution was approved, fully recognizing the Tribe as a sovereign nation with the right to self-determination.
1934 & 1970
Paiutes Achieve Sovereignty
The Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 provided the framework for tribal self-governance. On July 22, 1970, the Las Vegas Paiute Tribal Constitution was approved, fully recognizing the Tribe as a sovereign nation with the right to self-determination.
1960s
Legal Victory for Land Rights
The Las Vegas Paiutes joined other Southern Paiute bands to sue the federal government for illegal seizure of tribal land. In 1965, they received approximately $7.2 million for almost 30 million acres wrongfully taken, followed by an additional $8.25 million in 1968.
1960s
Legal Victory for Land Rights
The Las Vegas Paiutes joined other Southern Paiute bands to sue the federal government for illegal seizure of tribal land. In 1965, they received approximately $7.2 million for almost 30 million acres wrongfully taken, followed by an additional $8.25 million in 1968.
1983
Snow Mountain Reservation
Through an Act of Congress, an additional 4,000 acres came into Paiute possession at the Snow Mountain Reservation, eighteen miles northwest of the original colony. The land sits between Mount Charleston and the Sheep Range, with the Tule Springs fossil beds to the southeast.
1983
Snow Mountain Reservation
Through an Act of Congress, an additional 4,000 acres came into Paiute possession at the Snow Mountain Reservation, eighteen miles northwest of the original colony. The land sits between Mount Charleston and the Sheep Range, with the Tule Springs fossil beds to the southeast.
Economic Development
1977
Tribal Smoke Shop Established
The Las Vegas Paiute Tribe adopted its own tobacco excise tax (Resolution 10-27-77B), exercising sovereign taxation authority later affirmed by Nevada law (NRS 370.0751). The Tribal Smoke Shop grew from a small retail operation into the largest single retailer of cigarettes in the United States, and one of the top ten non-gaming businesses in Nevada — voted Best Smoke Shop in Las Vegas for 17 consecutive years.
1977
Tribal Smoke Shop Established
The Las Vegas Paiute Tribe adopted its own tobacco excise tax (Resolution 10-27-77B), exercising sovereign taxation authority later affirmed by Nevada law (NRS 370.0751). The Tribal Smoke Shop grew from a small retail operation into the largest single retailer of cigarettes in the United States, and one of the top ten non-gaming businesses in Nevada — voted Best Smoke Shop in Las Vegas for 17 consecutive years.
1995
Las Vegas Paiute Golf Opens
The first Pete Dye-designed golf course opened — a par-72, 7,158-yard masterpiece with signature railroad-tie bunkers and water hazards on seven holes. When it first opened, the clubhouse was just a tent in the desert. From this one course, a world-class reputation was established.
1995
Las Vegas Paiute Golf Opens
The first Pete Dye-designed golf course opened — a par-72, 7,158-yard masterpiece with signature railroad-tie bunkers and water hazards on seven holes. When it first opened, the clubhouse was just a tent in the desert. From this one course, a world-class reputation was established.
2001
The Wolf Course - Longest in Nevada
The third Pete Dye course opened at 7,604 yards — the longest in Nevada. Together, three courses established the Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort as an international golf destination with 54 holes of championship play. Golf Digest consistently awards 4.5 out of 5 stars.
2001
The Wolf Course - Longest in Nevada
The third Pete Dye course opened at 7,604 yards — the longest in Nevada. Together, three courses established the Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort as an international golf destination with 54 holes of championship play. Golf Digest consistently awards 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Oct 2017
NuWu Cannabis Marketplace
The tribe opened NuWu Cannabis Marketplace — a 15,800 square-foot dispensary on tribal land, the largest legal cannabis store in the United States, operating 24 hours with a drive-through. "NuWu" translates to "we, the Southern Paiute people."
Oct 2017
NuWu Cannabis Marketplace
The tribe opened NuWu Cannabis Marketplace — a 15,800 square-foot dispensary on tribal land, the largest legal cannabis store in the United States, operating 24 hours with a drive-through. "NuWu" translates to "we, the Southern Paiute people."
July 2023
Sky High Lounge - World's Largest
A massive expansion created a 40,000 square-foot, two-story facility — the world's largest dispensary and consumption lounge. The Sky High Lounge features dab bars, a rooftop terrace with views of Fremont Street and the Las Vegas Strip.
July 2023
Sky High Lounge - World's Largest
A massive expansion created a 40,000 square-foot, two-story facility — the world's largest dispensary and consumption lounge. The Sky High Lounge features dab bars, a rooftop terrace with views of Fremont Street and the Las Vegas Strip.
Looking Forward
2024-2025
Vertical Integration & Growth
The tribe developed a 110,000 square-foot cannabis grow facility, achieving vertical integration. A 1,000-acre job creation zone, master-planned community development, and return of 3,000+ acres of ancestral lands are underway through a partnership with the City of Las Vegas.
2024-2025
Vertical Integration & Growth
The tribe developed a 110,000 square-foot cannabis grow facility, achieving vertical integration. A 1,000-acre job creation zone, master-planned community development, and return of 3,000+ acres of ancestral lands are underway through a partnership with the City of Las Vegas.
The Future
Building Tomorrow
Plans for a hotel and conference center at Snow Mountain, solar energy development, and permanent land expansion through federal legislation. As Chairman Benny Tso says: "We pride ourselves on being able to go back to our roots and look at where we came from and incorporate how we walk between 2025 and our traditional cultural ways."
The Future
Building Tomorrow
Plans for a hotel and conference center at Snow Mountain, solar energy development, and permanent land expansion through federal legislation. As Chairman Benny Tso says: "We pride ourselves on being able to go back to our roots and look at where we came from and incorporate how we walk between 2025 and our traditional cultural ways."
Tribal Council
The elected Tribal Council serves as the governing body, upholding sovereignty and guiding our nation with wisdom, dedication, and a vision seven generations ahead.
Executive Leadership
Chairman
Benny Tso
Tribal Chairman
Vice Chairman
Chris Spotted Eagle
Tribal Vice-Chairman
Council Members
Council Member
Debra Faria
Council Member
Council Member
Deryn Pete
Council Member
Council Member
Marla Pete
Council Member
Council Member
Mariah Mike
Council Member
Council Member
Terrance Lynch
Council Member
Tribal Departments
Nine departments work together to provide comprehensive healthcare, education, public safety, justice, and economic opportunity for the Las Vegas Paiute Tribe and the broader Native American community.
Health & Human Services
Holistic Healthcare for Our People
Operated in collaboration with Indian Health Services, our clinic provides Medical, Dental, Optometry, Pharmacy, and Behavioral Health outpatient services to all federally recognized Native American tribal citizens.
Police Department
Partners in Community Safety
Committed to being the safest tribal community in the United States. Our officers serve and protect the Las Vegas Paiute Tribe while demonstrating respect for life, property, and the rights of every community member.
P.A.I.U.T.E. -- Partners, Accountability, Integrity, Understanding, Teamwork, Excellence
Tribal Court
Upholding Tribal Sovereignty & Justice
Our Tribal Court exercises sovereign jurisdiction over criminal, juvenile, traffic, and civil matters. The Court upholds the Tribal Constitution and provides essential legal services including orders of protection and Indian Child Welfare Act proceedings.
Education Program
Investing in Our Future
Financial aid and educational support for tribal citizens and descendants. Our program assists with tuition, books, and fees at trade schools, community colleges, and universities to ensure every citizen can reach their potential.
Child Development Center
Nurturing Young Minds
Located at the Colony, our Child Development Center provides early childhood education rooted in Nuwu culture. We foster growth through culturally appropriate learning environments that prepare our youngest members for success.
Tribal Governance
Self-Determination & Sovereignty
Our elected Tribal Council exercises sovereign authority over all government operations and policy. Through self-governance, we ensure the prosperity of our people while preserving the customs and traditions of the Nuwu.
Land & Environment
Stewards of Our Ancestral Lands
Stewardship of over 3,850 acres including the Snow Mountain Reservation at the base of Mount Charleston. We advocate for sacred land protections through federal legislation and sustainable environmental practices.
Community Programs
Strengthening Nuwuvi Heritage
Pow wows, cultural celebrations, community gatherings, and programs that preserve and strengthen the bonds of our shared Nuwu heritage. We bring our people together through events that honor tradition and build community.
Economic Development
Building a Prosperous Future
Diversified tribal enterprises drive self-sufficiency and fund essential services. Revenue from our businesses -- including three championship golf courses, NuWu Cannabis Marketplace, and the Smoke Shop -- supports healthcare, education, and community programs.
Building Our Future
From a tent in the desert to world-class enterprise — three powerhouse businesses driving economic self-determination that funds community programs and preserves sovereignty.
54 Holes
Championship Golf
Golf Destination
Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort
Home to three Pete Dye-designed championship courses with 54 holes of desert golf. Nu-Wav Kaiv (1995), Sun Mountain (1997), and The Wolf (2001) at 7,604 yards — the longest course in Nevada. Golf Digest consistently awards 4.5 out of 5 stars. A 50,000 sq ft clubhouse, award-winning restaurant, the largest golf shop in Nevada, and wedding venue booked through 2026.
Visit Website17 Years
Best of Las Vegas
Award-Winning Retail
Las Vegas Paiute Tribal Smoke Shop
Voted Best Smoke Shop in Las Vegas for 17 consecutive years (2009–2025), the Tribal Smoke Shop offers the largest quality selection of tobacco products in Nevada with over 68 premium and generic brands across two locations. Operating under the Tribe's own excise tax adopted in 1977 (Res. 10-27-77B), a right affirmed by Nevada law (NRS 370.0751). Features a two-lane drive-thru, online pre-ordering for cartons and cigars, the Custom Cigar Shoppe, plus food, beverages, and souvenirs.
Visit Website40,000 sq ft
World's Largest
World's Largest Dispensary
NuWu Cannabis Marketplace
A 40,000 square-foot, two-story facility — the world's largest dispensary and consumption lounge. The Sky High Lounge features dab bars, a rooftop terrace with views of Fremont Street and the Strip, 170 feet of display cases, the fastest drive-through in Las Vegas, and over 1,000 cannabis products. The name "NuWu" translates to "we, the Southern Paiute people."
Visit Website01
Preserving Heritage
Protecting ancestral traditions, the Southern Paiute language, Salt Songs, and 9,000 years of living connection to the land for future generations.
02
Economic Sovereignty
Diversified tribal enterprise from world-class golf to the largest dispensary in the world ensures self-sufficiency and funds community programs.
03
Community First
Revenue from enterprise goes directly back to the community — healthcare, scholarships, elder care, youth programs, infrastructure, and education.
Contact Us
Tribal Administration
Address
1 Paiute Drive
Las Vegas, NV 89106
Phone
(702) 386-3926Website
www.lvpaiutetribe.comTribal Smoke Shop
Paiute Police Department
Serving & Protecting Our Community
P.A.I.U.T.E. — Partners with Community, Accountability, Integrity, Understanding, Teamwork, Excellence
Education Program
The Education Committee awards financial aid based on academic merit for tribal members and descendants, supporting tuition and books for trade school through university.
Committee Chairs: Marla Pete (Chair) & Debra Faria (Co-Chair)
Official Tribal Government Website
This is an official website of the Las Vegas Paiute Tribe, a federally recognized sovereign nation. This site is hosted on the lvpaiute.gov domain and is subject to federal and tribal government security policies.
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