The choice of “Indians” as the PN-G school nickname in 1925 was influenced by local history. Port Neches at one time was the home of the only Indian village in Jefferson County, Texas.
As early as 500 AD, Nacazil, Attakapas, Karankawa and other Indian tribes once made their home on a high bluff overlooking the Neches River that later became the town of Port Neches. As noted by local historians, many Native American artifacts have been discovered in Port Neches.
In 1979 Principal Chief Ross O. Swimmer of the Cherokee Nation endorsed Port Neches-Groves High School as Ambassadors of Goodwill in recognition of their interest in and contributions towards honoring the Cherokee Nation.
In 1980, Port Neches-Groves High School was presented the official seal of the Cherokee Nation.
This sincere goodwill agreement between the honorable Chief Swimmer, the Cherokee people, and PN-G High school will always be revered, respected, appreciated and honored by Port Neches-Groves High School, it’s alumni and all supporters.
Rather than a mascot or logo, the association is a spirit and mindset carried with each generation of PN-G students. Like the Cherokee and other Indigenous tribes, strong individual character, integrity, honesty, perseverance, courage, respect, trust, honor and humility are emphasized and expected of PN-G students. Those are ideals that any group or community should strive for.
Seal of the Cherokee Nation
