Ho-Chunk Nation

In 1634, when the French explorer Jean Nicolet waded ashore at Red Banks, Wisconsin, now known as Green Bay, people of the Ho- Chunk Nation greeted him. The French called this nation the Winnebago Tribe, a name that continued to be used for over 360 years. In 1963 the Wisconsin Winnebago Nation became a federally recognized tribe under the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934. In November 1994, when the Bureau of Indian Affairs formally accepted its constitution, the Tribe’s name legally changed to the Ho- Chunk Nation +the People of the Big Voice +which we have always called ourselves.

Currently, approximately 6,900 people are enrolled Tribal members. The Ho- Chunk Nation does not have a typical reservation land base. Rather, the majority of the Tribal population lives within a fourteen- county service area in west central Wisconsin, where the nation owns approximately 5,400 acres of land. Large numbers of Tribal members also live within the urban areas of Madison and Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota; and Chicago, Illinois. According to oral history, the Ho- Chunk people have been in the Wisconsin region since prior to two ice ages. Over one- half of the area that is now the State of Wisconsin, more than seven million acres of some of the finest land in America, was ceded to the United States by the Ho- Chunk Nation in 1837. Tribal leaders argued the treaty was not valid due to misinterpretation of the language and because the signers of the 1837 treaty were not authorized to negotiate land issues on behalf of the Tribe. As a result, many Ho- Chunk people were forced to move into Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota and Nebraska by the United States Cavalry. Those who escaped the removals and returned to or remained in Wisconsin endured many hardships. In 1881, the (then) Winnebago heads of households remaining in Wisconsin were enrolled in a census and could acquire homestead land. This accounts for the scattered and largely rural land base of the present- day Ho- Chunk Nation, which makes providing services to Tribal members very challenging.

Of major concern to the Nation, as well as every Tribal nation within the United States, is the fact that the number of speakers of the Ho- ak (Ho- Chunk) language is diminishing at an alarming rate. The language, a gift from the Creator, is the essence of life for the Ho- Chunk people. The Ho- ak language is our contact with the past, the embodiment of today, and our vision of the future, containing generations of wisdom going back to antiquity. This wisdom prepares future generations for the challenges they will have to face as leaders of the Ho- Chunk Nation +situations that none of us may even be able to predict as we look back on the past 100 years of hardship and growth.

The Ho- Chunk Nation is working to promote economic development and diversification in order to ensure that the next 100 years are a successful continuation of the strong foundation that was built during the previous 100 years. These resources provide the foundation for greater sovereignty and self- determination. To this end, the Nation’s efforts to grow its economy include four gaming complexes, retail and convenience stores, lodging and conference facilities and various other tribally owned businesses located strategically throughout the checkerboard reservation.

For more information about the Ho-Chunk Nation, call the Public Relations Office at (800) 294- 9343.

Corporal Mitchell Red Cloud, Jr.

Korean War Medal of Honor Recipient

It is largely unknown that through the years many tribal members have joined their fellow countrymen in military service to the United States. Relative to their population, three times more Indians enlist than do any other racial or ethnic group. During World War I, for example, 10,000 Indians, including a sizable number from Wisconsin, volunteered for military service.

During the Korean Conflict, a Wisconsin Ho-Chunk, Mitchell Red Cloud, Jr., at the young age of 26, gave his life and received the nation- highest tribute, the Congressional Medal of Honor, for gallantry and bravery beyond the call of duty.

It all happened on 5 November 1950 near Chonghyon, Korea. From his position on the point of a ridge immediately in front of the company command post Corporal Red Cloud was the first to detect the approach of the Chinese Communist forces and give the alarm as the enemy charged from a brush-covered area less than 100 feet from him. He held his position and fought fearlessly. This heroic act stopped the enemy from overrunning his company- position and gained time for reorganization and evacuation of the wounded.

Cpl. Red Cloud- dauntless courage and gallant self-sacrifice reflects the highest credit upon him and upholds the esteemed traditions of the U.S. Army.

Oneida Nation

Throughout western civilization, cultures have been defined by the political, customary and social activities of individuals living in the same time and place. But for the people of the Oneida Nation, now more than 15,000 members, their culture and language is seen as a continuous thread weaving through time. One of the six nations that make up the Iroquois Confederacy, Oneida people approach the present with a sense of reverence for the past and responsibility to the future. You can learn more about the rich Oneida heritage and colorful history by visiting the Oneida Nation Museum. The story of the Oneida (People of the Standing Stone) unfolds in a series of unique exhibits which explain the history of the Iroquois Confederacy, the focus on Iroquois men and women. Nestled within the trees of the Oneida Reservation, the Oneida Nation Museum provides a hands- on exhibit where you can feel the weight of the corn pounder, the texture of the beadwork, hides and cornhusk items. Step into the past by walking through a reconstructed authentic Oneida Longhouse located on the museum grounds. Another way to experience the Oneida social traditions is by taking part in their annual Pow wow’s, held every year on the Fourth of July weekend. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to take part in the celebration. Pow wow’s are simply a social gathering where people come together to renew old friendships and make new ones. Don’t worry if you don’t know the procedures or dances because the Oneida Pow wow’s has an emcee to keep things in order. Come and experience the pageantry, the colors and the beat of the drums at the Oneida Nation Pow wow’s.

The Oneida Nation Museum and the Oneida Nation Pow wow’s are just a few of the activities available for the whole family.

The Oneida approach to lifelong wellness encompasses the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of life, keeping us in constant celebration with Mother Earth and natural medicines. A wellness center we call Tsyunhehkwa (pronounced joon- hay- qwa +meaning “It provides life for us”) is located on an 80- acre organic farm on the reservation and is open to the public. It offers Native American alternative medicines, 140 different herbs, oils for healing and Aroma Therapy. In addition, the store is stocked with traditional white corn soup and a variety of organic food products.

The Oneida Nation also offers full scale tours for visitors. Enjoy the heritage, culture and economic growth of the Oneida. From the uniquely designed “Turtle School” to the Oneida gaming complex, we have tailored tours for any size group. Stop in any one of our many One- Stop Convenience Stores and Smokeshops (1-800-206-1100).

Stay at the luxurious Radison Hotel and Conference Center, Green Bay, complete with an olympic- size pool, fitness room and gift shop.

Adults are assured a good time at Oneida Bingo and Casino, and everyone will enjoy the many attractions in the Green Bay Area including the Wildlife Sanctuary, the Packer Hall of Fame and the National Railroad Museum.

For more information regarding the Oneida Nation, call (800) 236- 2214, or visit www.oneidanation.org

Uniquely Oneida The Turtle School

The Oneida Nation’s Elementary school is known as the “Turtle School,” and from this aerial photo you can see why. The Turtle is symbolic of Mother Earth to the Oneida People and is the foundation for the design and curriculum of the Oneida Tribal School. In the Oneida Creation Story the turtle- back along with the creatures of the water and sky helped to create the “Great Turtle Island”, our Mother Earth. The nurturing arms of the turtle school are where the classrooms are placed consistent with Oneida- matrilineal culture. The initial drawing for the Turtle School was done by a former Turtle School student, Jolee Skenandore, Bear Clan.

Why The Cornhusk Doll Has No Face

It was the harvest season and everything was made ready for winter.

The children didn- have anything to play with, so the woman made corn husk dolls.

Now, one doll was made very special, and she was very beautiful. One day, when she had passed by the water, she saw her reflection in the water, and became very proud and haughty because of her beauty.

She was so proud of herself, that she would not let any of the children play with her. The “Great Spirit” had seen how the doll would run away from the children, so that no one could touch her beauty. This did not please the “Great Spirit” to see her act that way, so he took her spirit and her face away.

When she had realized what had happened to her, she started wandering the earth. She came upon a snail, and asked him if he knew how she could get her face and spirit back.

The snail was upset, because he could not help her out, and besides, he was very unhappy himself. The snail complained,”It always takes me so long to get anywhere,”and a nearby raccoon heard his complaint.

The raccoon then put the snail out of his misery and ate him. The doll went on, and tried to ask a squirrel for help, but he had no time because he was busy collecting nuts for the winter. She saw a turtle, but he was on his way to sleep for the winter. She asked all of the other creatures she came upon for their help, but all were too busy with themselves. She began to feel tired, and then she saw the owl. Asking him for his advice, he replied, “You must forget yourself and your own concerns, and start helping others.”

That is why the cornhusk doll has no face.

Menominee Nation

The Menominee Indians are the oldest continuous residents of Wisconsin, having resided on this land for more than 10,000 years +our creation stories tell us that we had our beginning at the mouth of the Menominee River where our original five clans were created which are the Bear, Eagle (Thunderer), Moose, Wolf and Crane.

The Menominee are an Algonquin speaking tribe. In ancient times, tribal members lived by hunting, fishing and gathering. The name Menominee or “O-MAEQ-NO-MIN-NI-WUK” means People of the Wild Rice. It was said that when the Menominee entered an area, the wild rice followed and when they left the wild rice passed. The Tribe- aboriginal lands included more than nine and one half million acres of land, which is now central and mid- eastern Wisconsin and part of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The present Menominee Reservation was established in 1854 in a treaty with the United States government, leaving the tribe with only 276,480 acres of land. In 1856, two townships that were ceded to the U.S. Government for the Stockbridge-Munsee Tribe further reduced the reservation. Today, because of the tribes’ world famous sustained yield forest management practices, 95 percent of the 234,000 acres produces the finest old stands of hardwood, pine and hemlock located in the Great Lakes region. All forty-six of Wisconsin’s timber varieties grow and are harvested on the reservation by Menominee Tribal Enterprise, Inc.; a logging and lumber mill owned and operated by the Menominee Tribe. The mill has been designated as a Wisconsin State Heritage Tourism site.

Approximately 24 miles of the Wolf River, a federally designated wild river, flows through the Menominee Reservation. It is one of the last pristine rivers in the state. Whitewater rafting is one of the highlights of summer recreation. Watch as rafters challenge the Wolf River Dells and the “Rooster Tail” at Smokey Falls. While at the Wolf River Dells hike along the trail to the gorge for spectacular canyon scenery. Quench your thirst or grab a snack at one of the concession stands at either location and at Sullivan Falls.

“Spirit Rock” is also located on Highway 55. A State Historical marker tells the legend of this rock and the importance it holds for the future of the Menominee Nation.

Stop at Keshena Falls where historic events and signing of the 1854 treaty took place. Keshena Falls was once the ancient spawning grounds of the Sturgeon and where Menominee clans gathered for celebrations and ceremonies. Keshena Falls has been designated as a Wisconsin State Heritage Tourism site.

On the Wolf River below Keshena Falls is the Menominee Logging Camp Museum. Owned and maintained by the Menominee tribe it is home to the largest and most complete logging museum in the United States. Logging history is brought to life as visitors view 20,000 artifacts housed in seven log buildings constructed like the logging camps of the late 1800′s and early 1900s. Guided tours are available May 1 through October 15.

The annual Menominee Nation Contest Pow wow’s is held on the first weekend of August. Dancers, singers, and drums from across the country and Canada gather in the beautiful “Woodland Bowl,” a natural amphitheater set among the pines. Some of the finest dance competition in Indian Country takes place right before your eyes. Enjoy traditional or contemporary foods from one of many concessions. Authentic Native American crafts can be bought from vendors at the Pow wow’s as well. Admission is charged and you are encouraged to dress comfortably for this outdoor event.

The Menominee Nation Casino+Bingo-Hotel complex provides the excitement of casino games and bingo at its best. Relax and stay at the Menominee Nation Hotel and enjoy fine dining at the hotel’s Forest Island Restaurant. Witness some of the top ice carvers in the world create masterpieces during January at the Ice Carving Spectacular. Music fans want to miss the annual Menominee Country Music Fest the third Saturday in August. The Menominee Casino accepts bus tours throughout the year. Call the tour and travel office for package information (715) 799-3600 ext. 5685. Visit the 5- Clan Gift Shop and take a souvenir of “Menominee” home with you.

For more information, visit the website for the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin: www.menominee.nsn.us and early 1900s. Guided tours are available May 1 through October 15.

The annual Menominee Nation Contest Pow wow’s is held on the first weekend of August. Dancers, singers, and drums from across the country and Canada gather in the beautiful “Woodland Bowl,” a natural amphitheater set among the pines. Some of the finest dance competition in Indian Country takes place right before your eyes. Enjoy traditional or contemporary foods from one of many concessions. Authentic Native American crafts can be bought from vendors at the Pow wow’s as well. Admission is charged and you are encouraged to dress comfortably for this outdoor event.

The Menominee Nation Casino+Bingo-Hotel complex provides the excitement of casino games and bingo at its best. Relax and stay at the Menominee Nation Hotel and enjoy fine dining at the hotel’s Forest Island Restaurant. Witness some of the top ice carvers in the world create masterpieces during January at the Ice Carving Spectacular. Music fans want to miss the annual Menominee Country Music Fest the third Saturday in August. The Menominee Casino accepts bus tours throughout the year. Call the tour and travel office for package information (715) 799-3600 ext. 5685. Visit the 5- Clan Gift Shop and take a souvenir of “Menominee” home with you.

For more information, visit the website for the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin: www.menominee.nsn.us

The College of the Menominee Nation

The College of the Menominee Nation (CMN) is on the southern border of the Menominee Reservation on Highway 47-55, approximately 45 miles northwest of Green Bay, Wisconsin. It is one of 35 tribal colleges in the United States, and one of two in Wisconsin.

The college welcomes enrollment by both Native and non-Native students. More than five hundred students attend classes at the main campus in Keshena and at two auxiliary sites in Green Bay and Bowler, Wisconsin. In addition, two institutes were created at the College of the Menominee Nation. The Menominee Culture Institute and the Sustainable Development Institute promote Menominee culture and language and help to advance Menominee forest management practices known worldwide.

A two-year core academic college program is offered for students wishing to pursue advanced degrees at a number of state and private institutions throughout Wisconsin.

The College of the Menominee Nation invites you to “Come Learn With Us.”

For more information, visit the college website: www.menominee.edu

Spirit Rock

One night long ago a Menominee Indian dreamed that Maeqnapus, grandson of Ko-Ko-Mas-Say-Sa-how (the Earth) and part founder of Mitawin or Medicine Society, invited him to visit the god. With seven of his friends the Indian called on Maeqnapus who granted their request to make them successful hunters. One of the band, however, angered the god by asking for eternal life. Maeqnapus, seizing the warrior by the shoulders, thrust him into the ground and said, “You shall be a stone, thus you will be everlasting.” The Menominee say at night kindly spirits come to lay offerings of tobacco at the rock and if one looks closely he can see their white veils in the trees. The legend is that when the rock finally crumbles away the race will be extinct.

Sokaogon (Mole Lake) Band of Lake Superior Chippewa

In the early autumn when the leaves begin to change color, the Sokaogon Indians of Mole Lake make their way to Rice Lake and one of the last remaining ancient wild rice beds in the state of Wisconsin. The annual harvest of wild rice, an essential part of the Indian diet, has altered very little in the hundreds of years that the Sokaogon have lived here. Family clans migrated from eastern Canada to Madeline Island a thousand years ago, led by a vision that their journey would end in a land where the “food grows on water” …Manomin or wild rice. The Sokaogon Band’s journey ended here in this area of abundant wild rice. Competition from the Sioux resulted in the Battle of Mole Lake in 1806. Today, a historical marker on Highway 55 in the Village of Mole Lake identifies the battleground where more than 500 warriors were slain in fierce hand- to- hand battle.

Sokaogon means the “Post in the Lake” people because of a spiritual significance to a post +possibly the remains of a petrified tree +that stood in Post Lake near here. The Sokaogon Ojibwa are also referred to as the Lost Tribe because the legal title to the 12- mile square reservation from the Treaty of 1854 was believed lost in a shipwreck on Lake Superior. The Sokaogon Band, under the leadership of Chief Willard Ackley, finally, after a long struggle, received federal recognition and reservation status in 1937. The Sokaogon (Mole Lake) Band enjoys three beautiful lakes either on or adjacent to the small reservation; Mole Lake, Bishop Lake and Rice Lake, which lies at the headwaters of the Wolf River.

Tribal enterprises include The Mole Lake Regency Casino and Mole Lake Bingo located seven miles south of Crandon on Highway 55, 30 miles East of Rhinelander, and The Mole Lake Smokeshop.

The Mole Lake area boasts hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails, as well as hiking and mountain biking trails, ATV trails and cross country ski trails.The newly developed Ma- dwa- Oshi Trail connects Highway 55 and Sand Lake Road and is open to people who would like to walk or ride their bike along this scenic pathway, rather than having to use busy area roadways. This trail, which has been dedicated to former tribal chairman Charles Fox, Sr., is the result of a combined effort between the Tribe and the township of Nashville, serving to promote community safety. There are also more than 800 lakes, 82 trout streams and 400,000 acres of public wilderness land teeming with wildlife. Bald eagles are easy to spot soaring above the Village of Mole Lake and nearby lakes and streams.

For more information about Mole Lake, call (800) 236- 9466 or visit www.molelake.com.

Mole Lake’s Historic Cabin

Next to the Mole Lake Motel set back from the road stands a cabin that dates back to the late 1800-. It first served as a layover for mail carriers that delivered along the military road from Green Bay to the copper mines on Lake Superior.

In the 1870-, a Danish man named Wilhelm Dinesen used it as a trading post. Surrounded by the beauty of the northern Wisconsin Forest, he referred to the site as Frydenland, or “Grove of Joy.” The Chippewa became his friends and taught him the finer points of hunting and fishing the area. Dinesen- daughter, born in Europe sometime later, grew up to become a writer, whose credits include a famous piece “Out of Africa”, that was later made into a movie.

In the early 1900-, the cabin served as a post office, run by postmaster Ludwig Motzfeldt, who became the first treasurer of Forest County.

The Mole Lake Chippewa community has efforts underway to restore and preserve the cabin with the hope that it will be listed on both state and national historic registers.

The harvest

For hundreds of years, the Sokaogon people have gathered wild rice, more commonly known in the Ojibwa language as “manomin” meaning “the food that grows on the water”. Scientists have determined that wild rice is the only “naturally occurring” grain in North America.

The flavorful green seeds thrive in 320 acre mineral-rich lake found on the Sokaogon Reservation. From a distance it looks like a wheat field.

Each fall, it is harvested in the old tradition. One person stands in the back of the canoe, slowly pushing the craft forward using a long pole that reaches the shallow lake bottom. The other person uses a pair of small ricing sticks, made from lightweight cedar branches, to gently bend several reeds over the center of the boat, and giving them a gentle tap. This causes a dozen or two of the ripened two-inch-long seeds to fall into the canoe. The staff of the tall plant is then released and allowed to spring back into its original position. This smooth and alternating action is repeated from side to side as the canoe moves silently thru the reeds.

Following the harvest, the wild rice is dried over an open fire, then danced upon until the outer hull falls off. A pound or so is scooped up into a birch bark basked for the fanning process to begin. The small amount of rice is then tossed like a salad. The air usually catches and removes the remaining bits of dried hull, leaving the rice to fall back into the basket. A thorough cleaning by hand improves the purity of the product before it is packaged and included into the food pantry of local families.

The annual harvest of wild rice is a sacred and vital activity and a special time to give thanks to our Creator. We honor Mother Earth, called “Aki” in the Ojibwa language, as well as the water, called “NiBi” for providing us a place to gather the manomin. Wild rice will always be a link between the past and the present for the Sokaogon Chippewa.

Forest County Potawatomi

The Potawatomi, or Keeper of the Fire, belong to an alliance known as the “Three Fires” that was started long ago among three brothers who shared similar lands and backgrounds. All are of the Anishinabe and live in the eastern part of North America. After various wars and migrations, the tribes moved to the Great Lakes Area. The oldest brother, Chippewa (Ojibwa), was given the responsibility of Keeper of the Faith. The middle brother, Ottawa (Odawa), was the Keeper of the Trade, and the youngest brother, Potawatomi (Bode Wad Mi), was responsible for keeping the Sacred Fire; hence the name, “Keeper of the Fire.”

The Forest County Potawatomi Reservation contains approximately 12,000 acres of checkerboard land in Forest County. Once landless due to a series of treaties, the tribe has lived here since they purchased the land in 1913. Currently, the Potawatomi Tribe consists of approximately 1,200+ tribal members, of which about half reside on or near the reservation. Along Highway 8 is an historical marker identifying the “Northern Highlands,” a beautiful glacially carved region of lakes and streams swimming with fish, together with forests rich with wildlife. Located on tribal lands near Crandon is Sugar Bush Hill. At 1,950 feet above sea level, Sugar Bush Hill is the second highest point in Wisconsin. From it, one can observe an incredible panoramic view of the surrounding forests and lakes.

The Potawatomi Cultural Center and Museum is a great place to learn more about the tribe, its native lands, and fascinating history and culture. It houses an archive, a library, a cultural hall and a 2,700 square foot permanent exhibit entitled: “People of the Three Fires.” tribe is experiencing an unprecedented era of growth and prosperity. The Potawatomi Bingo/ Northern Lights Casino is located on Highway 32 just north of Carter, Wisconsin. Adjacent to it is the Indian Springs Lodge. Nearby are the Potawatomi Convenience Store and Smoke Shop. On U.S. Highway 8 four miles east of Crandon is the Fire-Up Smoke Shop, which carries not only tobacco products, but a large variety of fireworks and Native American arts and crafts as well. The Potawatomi have also recently opened a new Health and Wellness Center.

Travel north on Highway H out of Wabeno and you will find the Potawatomi Red Deer Ranch. These red deer are raised for market and nearly 100% of each animal is utilized. The Ranch is open for tours. It is quite exciting to see hundreds of deer and especially the large stags with their huge antlers, some weighing up to 800 pounds.

Pow wow’s are held at various times during the year and the public is welcome. The main Pow-wows are held in March and August. A telephone call to the tribal center is suggested for the exact dates and times. Crandon, also located in Forest County, is the site of the famous Chevy Truck World Championship Off-Road Races. The Spring Run 101 is held in June and the “Brush Run,” in September. In the winter, the track is used for world class Snowcross races as well. The Forest County Potawatomi tribe is a proud sponsor of these exciting events.

Tribal gaming operations have expanded to include the notable Potawatomi Casino & Bingo in downtown Milwaukee, a popular entertainment venue that caters to meetings and banquets as well.

For more information about Forest County Potawatomi, call (800) 777- 1640 or (800) 960- 5479. Or visit our award winning website www.fcpotawatomi.com.

Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa

Lac du Flambeau is a premiere place to visit for those seeking an exciting cultural and hands-on historical experience. Ojibwe culture is alive and well-respected in this community which has much to offer in the ways of both nightlife and outdoor living. Come to Lac du Flambeau to have a quiet walk in the woods, an exciting game of blackjack at the casino, or an authentic cultural experience at the local Ojibwe museum. This is one of the unique places in the world where the balance of natural resources and modern development co-exist to protect future generations.

The rich history and culture of the Lac du Flambeau reservation brings the past alive into the present. Many years ago, the ancient Ojibwe came from the Big Salt Water in the East. Their migration was prophesied to end where they found food that grew on water. This food they found was wild rice, which continues to be a staple in the Ojibwe diet. Fish were also abundant and were harvested by the light of a flaming torch; thus the name Lake of the Torches. The Ojibwe name for this region was Waswagoning, meaning, “A place where they spear fish by torch light.”

During the summer months, visitors to the reservation can experience what it was like in the old days at Waswagoning Village. Experience Ojibwe culture at the George W. Brown, Jr. Museum. Pow-wow’s are held each Tuesday evening where you can watch or take part in the celebration of life, dancing to the rhythm of the drum, the heartbeat of the earth. Simple surroundings near the water’s edge and traditional dance regalia accompany beautiful sunsets and gentle evening breezes. Old songs and dances float across the lakes, reminding us of the hundreds of years of continued Ojibwe presence. It’s a fun and friendly event for the whole family where you will be invited to dance with the dancers.

The George W. Brown, Jr. Museum also offers top- notch exhibits dovetailing the old ways and the new ways into a holistic picture of Ojibwe life and history. The museum displays many rare artifacts while at the same time represents the present day in multi- media displays. An informational video is offered to show how tribal tradition is still maintained today. The video shows the harvesting of wild rice, fish, and wild game and other traditions that the Ojibwe still practice.

For those visitors with outdoor ambitions, Lac du Flambeau offers hundreds of lakes, streams and rivers which are ideal for recreational water sports and abundant with a variety of fish. In fact, a visit to the local fish hatchery guarantees catching a fish in the trout pond. Local fishing guides are available and can add an interesting perspective to your expeditions. Travel for miles on beautiful snowmobile trails through the scenic woods and over the lakes for winter sport enthusiasts.

A variety of special events are available year-round in Lac du Flambeau ranging from the annual Bear River Pow-wow to top entertainment acts at the Lake of the Torches Resort Casino. You can stay in comfort at the Casino Hotel or bring your camper and pitch a tent at the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Campground on Flambeau Lake.

The lakes, rivers and woodlands team with culture and modern amenities to make Lac du Flambeau one of the most popular destinations in north central Wisconsin. It is a place where you can visit the historic past while enjoying one of the most popular recreation areas of the beautiful northwoods. Whether your interest is in culture, fishing, swimming, or recreation, Lac du Flambeau has something for everyone all year round. You are welcome in Lac du Flambeau to experience our history, heritage, and culture.

William J. Poupart, Sr. Fish Hatchery & Trout Pond

The Lac du Flambeau Fish Hatchery was established in 1936. It is located on Pokegema Lake on Highway 47. The emphasis is on raising walleye and musky to stock in reservation lakes that are open for public fishing. Both lake and well water is used to control temperatures for year round production.

Fish eggs are harvested from local lakes and hatched in incubators. Some of the fry hatched are put back into area lakes and some are raised to fingerling size and then released. The fish culture program raises all fish necessary for stocking reservation waters. Since 1960 the hatchery has raised nearly 600 million walleye fry, three million walleye fingerlings, two and a half million muskellunge fry and just over one hundred and twenty-five thousand muskellunge fingerlings.

The original structure was recently replaced with a new state-of-the-art facility that doubles fish production.

In the summer months you can fish in the trout pond even without a fishing license. It is fun for the whole family and your fish are bagged while you wait.

Group tours can be arranged by calling ahead for an appointment at (715) 588-9603.

Lac du Flambeau Famous Eagle

A Civil War Legend

The most famous bird in American history came from the Waswagoning area, now known as the Lac du Flambeau Indian Reservation. In 1861, The Lac Du Flambeau Indians were on their annual spring expedition into the maple sugar bush of the northern forests. Chief Sky, the son of Chief Thunder-of-Bees, encountered two baby eaglets way up atop the pines and took them down. As the people traveled down river they came upon the home of Dan McCann to whom they gave the baby eaglet who would one day become the famous “Old Abe”.

McCann cared for the eagle until it became older and decided to present the special eagle to the Union soldiers of Wisconsin. McCann presented Old Abe to the 8th Wisconsin Regiment at Eau Claire. After accepting the eagle, the company changed their name from the Badgers to the War Eagles and Old Abe served as their mascot for many years.

As a part of the War Eagle Company, Old Abe became more famous each day and provided a great source of pride to the men of the Wisconsin 8th. Abe was carried into battle on a perch in the same way as the American Flag. He withstood battles in Wisconsin, Illinois, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee. After the war ended, Old Abe traveled across the country and attended national conventions, centennial celebrations and many major events. Abe rested in his home in Madison, Wisconsin at the end of his life and actually resided in the Capitol building.

In recent years, Abe has been awarded honors by the U.S. government and military service. In 1999, the 8th of Wisconsin rededicated the Old Abe statue in Jim’s Falls, WI, along with a 20-mile trail in that area in his name. This famous bird, born in the beautiful north country of Lac du Flambeau, an area still abundant in eagles, was found by Chief Sky, and then spent his life with the brave soldiers and historical leaders of the United States.

Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa

The Lac Courte Oreilles (LCO) Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin historically occupied a vast territory within a 100- mile radius of the present “reservation” location, 12 miles southeast of present- day Hayward, Wisconsin. The LCO people are one band of the Ojibwa Nation that originally occupied the upper eastern woodland area of the North American continent. As they migrated westward, they displaced the Sioux from the Great Lakes regions. The LCO Band of the Ojibwa Nation has since centered around the several lakes near the headwaters of the Chippewa River. The Treaty of LaPointe in 1854 established specific territorial rights of the Lac Courte Oreilles people.

The Tribal elders at that time clearly wanted to maximize the opportunity to include resources. These resources included wild rice beds and fishing on the Grindstone, Chief and Lac Courte Oreilles Lakes. The land is also rich in timber stands of oak, conifer, maple, hickory, cedar and birch. There are bountiful fishing sites on the Chippewa, Chief and Courderay Rivers, as well as hunting and trapping areas for waterfowl, deer, bear, beaver, mink, muskrat, and other game. The tribe also wished to preserve their historical water transportation routes via the Chippewa, Flambeau and Namekagon Rivers. The selection of lands resulted in a very irregularly shaped reservation, but one with clear potential, both then and now.

The Chippewa Flowage with it’s beautiful rock formations is a natural wonder. It has become a sanctuary for bald eagles, blue herons, loons, geese, swans and ducks of every kind. Lodging, boat rentals and other amenities are available at the tribally owned Herman- Landing Resort, located on the world famous Chippewa Flowage.

Lac Courte Oreilles tribal enrollment is nearly 6,000 members, of which 50 percent live at LCO in 23 different community villages. The LCO tribe occupies approximately 84,000 acres of land. The tribe owns and operates the following enterprises; K- 12 Tribal School, the LCO IGA Commercial Center, Mobil gas, Development Corporation, Community College, LCO Boys & Girls Club, several elderly centers, a cranberry marsh, 88.9 FM WOJB radio station, LCO Casino Bingo Lodge and Convention Center and Grindstone Creek Casino. Also, a beautiful living cultural center is now open. Tours are available at the cranberry marsh, college, WOJB, St. Francis Solanus Mission and in the new living culture center.

In the LCO community and surrounding Hayward area, there is something for everyone: The Honor the Earth Pow wow’s, musky and cranberry festivals, National Fresh Water Fishing- Hall of Fame, museums, game farms and riding stables, interesting shops, atmospheric supper clubs, the Lumberjack World Championships, American Birkebeiner cross- country ski race and rodeos. Hayward is also noted as the Golf Capital of Wisconsin.

For more information about the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, call the LCO Visitor Center at (715) 634- 7419 or visit www.lcotourism.com.

The Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwa Community College

The mission of the Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwa Community College is to provide, within the Indian community, a system of post-secondary and continuing education with an associate and bachelor degree and certificate granting capabilities, while maintaining an open door policy.

The Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwa Community College curriculum reflects Ojibwa culture and tribal self-determination. The college-provides opportunities for individual self-improvement in a rapidly changing technological world, while maintaining the cultural integrity of the Anishinaabe. (“Original People”)

The college was founded by Tribal resolution in August of 1982. It is located in the beautiful woods of-Northern Wisconsin.

“Dream Catchers”

Native American oral tradition confirms the origin of the dream catcher lies with the Ojibwa, or Chippewa people. Ojibwa dream catchers were originally made with a 3 inch round wooden frame, filled with a web made of nettle-stalk cord that was dyed a deep red using bloodroot and wild plum inner bark. In parts of Canada and North East U.S. dream catchers are also fashioned in a teardrop shape.
Early Ojibwa women would hang a dream catcher from the hoop of their child- cradleboard. A feather adorning the dream catcher represented the air. Babies watching the air playing with the feather on their cradleboard were kept entertained.

Native Americans believe that dreams are messages from the spirit world. A dream catcher is said to attract dreams to its webs. The good spirits find their way through the center hole and float along the sacred feathers to the people sleeping below. The bad spirits get caught in the web and are melted by the morning sun.

Traditionally, Ojibwa children would receive dream catchers made of willow and sinew that were not meant to last. Eventually, the willow would dry out and the tension of the sinew collapses the dream catcher. In this way, it represents the temporary nature of youth.

Today, dream catchers are made of many different materials, each special and beautiful in their own way. They are hung from a baby- cradle and in the home so that everyone will have good dreams. Hang one in your home and allow only good dreams to enter.

Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa

A visit to the Bad River Chippewa Reservation in Northwestern Wisconsin is an exciting and enlightening experience for young and old alike. More than 95 percent of the reservation’s 124,234 acres remain undeveloped and wild. It is located along Wisconsin’s northern most coast of Lake Superior – the largest freshwater lake in the world.

The Bad River Chippewa have been living in this area for hundreds of years, although the present Bad River Reservation was established by a treaty in 1854 with the United States Government. Odanah, the Chippewa word for town, has been the cultural center for generations. It is located five miles east of Ashland on U.S. Highway 2. Some newer settlements have grown, but governmental and social activities remain in this area.

The Kakagon and Bad River Sloughs, 16,000 acres of high- quality Lake Superior wetlands, have been called Wisconsin’s Everglades. It is from these sloughs that past generations of Chippewa have been able to sustain life through the harvesting of wild rice. This is done during the month of August and is followed by the Manomin Fest and Pow-wow, a true celebration of culture.

The Bad River Chippewa operate a fish hatchery, annually stocking more than 15 million walleye into reservation rivers and other area lakes and streams.

There is a monthly tribal newspaper that is published and distributed throughout the region and mailed to subscribers who want to keep up with the happenings on the Bad River Reservation.

Visitors to the reservation enjoy the Bad River Lodge and Casino facilities. The Casino recreation complex offers the music of regional bands, snack bars and a restaurant serving daily specials, plus gift and souvenir shops with genuine Indian crafts and monthly promotions. The entertainment center is available for conferences/workshops, wedding receptions, etc. The Lodge houses 50 beautiful rooms and Jacuzzi suites, along with a swimming pool and hot tub, and a game room for kids and adults alike.

New to the Bad River Tribe is the Moccasin Trail Center, consisting of a full- service IGA grocery store, mini-casino, gas station and convenience store, small conference room for meetings of up to 30 people and the Bad River Tribal Transportation Department. This new complex shares a parking lot with the casino on Hwy 2. RV parking is also available here.

Area events include the Chequamegon Fat Tire Race, Red Clay Classics, Bayfield Apple Festival, Ashland Snowmobile Races, ABC Raceway, Northland Folk Fest, Bay Days, Winterfest, Muskie Festival, Native American Awareness Week at Northland College (culminating with a Pow wow’s at the College), Whistle Stop, Rendezvous, the Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua (live entertainment under the big top tent), several annual fishing contests and weekly car races on the ice (on Chequamegon Bay).

The Bad River Tribal Fish Hatchery

The Bad River Tribe owns and operates a fish hatchery established in 1975. The fishery is a highly valued resource to tribal members for cultural, social, subsistence and recreational purposes. Although Reservation waters are hosts to many species of fish, the walleye is the one most valued by the membership. Therefore, the fish hatchery focuses on raising walleye. The Bad River Tribal Fish Hatchery annually stocks more than 15 million walleye into the Kakagon and Bad Rivers and other area lakes and streams.

In 2001, the fish hatchery received a grant to replace worn and outdated equipment. The grant also allowed for the purchase and installation of 40 solar panels and a wind generator. The improvements greatly enhance the economic efficiency of the hatchery, and will help to replenish a resource used heavily by both members and non-members.

Another fish that is significant to the Bad River is the lake sturgeon. Only three rivers in the United States support a self-sustaining population of lake sturgeon. In 2001, an intense monitoring program was egun to estimate the population of this species.

In 2001, the fish hatchery received a grant to replace worn and outdated equipment. The grant also allowed for the purchase and installation of 40 solar panels and a wind generator. The improvements greatly enhance the economic efficiency of the hatchery, and will help to replenish a resource used heavily by both members and non-members.

Another fish that is significant to the Bad River is the lake sturgeon. Only three rivers in the United States support a self-sustaining population of lake sturgeon. In 2001, an intense monitoring program was begun to estimate the population of this species.

Reservation history

The reservation is known in English as Bad River but the common Ojibwe name is “Mashki Ziibii”, meaning “Swampy River.” This may have been mistaken at some time in the past as “Mazhi” or “Maji” Ziibii, which would mean Bad River.

The main village of Odanah, meaning village or town in Ojibwe, was originally located at the confluence of the Bad, White and Kakagon Rivers. This area remains full of rich topsoil. The original settlement was known as “Gete Gitigaaning” meaning “at the old garden.” This is where the tribe planted their domestic crops for late summer harvest.

Up river to the south, (the rivers here flow north from the continental divide to Lake Superior) the river is lined with hard and soft Maple trees where the tribe traditionally harvested Maple Sugar. Down river to the north on the Bad and Kakagon Rivers are the tribe- rich wild rice lands.

The Kakagon, meaning “Walleye Waters,” is also home to the tribe’s walleye harvest and hatchery operations where eight to ten million walleye fry are hatched out annually.