The origins of the name "Lumbee" itself are not entirely clear, but it is thought to have derived from the Santee (or Santi) Indians who lived in the area. The Santee people, in turn, are believed to have gotten their name from the Santee River in South Carolina.
It's important to note that:
* The Lumbee Tribe's name is not a self-identification. They refer to themselves as "the Lumbee people" and have used other names throughout history, including Croatan, Cheraw, and Indians.
* The name "Lumbee" was adopted by the tribe in the late 19th century. This was done to distinguish themselves from other Native American groups in the region and to gain recognition from the federal government.
* The Lumbee Tribe's origin story is complex and debated. While their connection to the Santee is well-accepted, the exact details of their history are still being researched and explored.
So, while the Lumbee River is the source of the tribe's name, the origins of the name itself are rooted in the history of the Santee people and the region they inhabit.