Tatanka is an Lakota Indian word which symbolizes two meanings – the Buffalo and the concept of  “Living Within Community”. The Lakota recognized and respected the spirit that embodied the Buffalo community. With the exception of the mating ritual, the herd always existed peacefully within themselves. So the word Tatanka stands for the Buffalo itself, and the Spirit of Living Within Community.

Back in the 1920’s, the people of the town of Buffalo, North Carolina gave up its existence so that Lake Lure and the Hickory Nut Gorge as we know it could be created. They sacrificed their community for the sake of the one we live in today. It was an ultimate expression of Tatanka - Living With Community. We recognize and honor the citizens of Buffalo by the way we treat each living thing around us – especially each other.

The Buffalo Cove community should always remember the spirit of these By-Laws is characterized by the Spirit of Tatanka - Living Within Community and all the caring and trust with each other that Spirit engenders.