The Wabanaki People

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For thousands of years, our Wabanaki ancestors have called the land now known as Maine their home. Today, four federally recognized tribes located in five communities the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, the Aroostook Band of Micmacs, the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township, the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point, and the Penobscot Nation are known collectively as the Wabanaki, or “People of the Dawnland."

Each community maintains its own tribal government, community schools, and each manages its respective lands and natural resources. Although most of Maine's Native people belong to one of these four federally recognized groups and reside on tribal lands, other Native people live in towns and cities across the State.

Many generations ago, people journeyed to these lands, traveling by land and in birchbark canoes, well-suited for the sea. They set up temporary camps where they engaged in hunting, fishing, berry gathering, clam harvesting, and trade with other Wabanaki communities.

Despite the challenges posed by European colonizers seeking to displace and erase us, we have stood strong, shaping the history of our people and the place now known as the State of Maine.

We are building a place to share Wabanaki culture, food and wisdom in Downtown Bangor. Click here to learn more about our Youth & Cultural Center.