The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe stands as a testament to resilience and enduring cultural identity, tracing its roots back to the very dawn of European contact in North America. As one of two federally recognized tribes of Wampanoag people in Massachusetts, their story is intertwined with the history of the region, marked by both profound loss and unwavering determination to preserve their heritage. While their interactions with European settlers began in the 17th century, it wasn’t until 2007 that the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe achieved the formal recognition they had long sought from the federal government.
A Name Echoing the Dawn:
The very name "Wampanoag" carries deep significance, translating to "People of the First Light" or "People of the Dawn." This evocative title speaks to their connection to the land and their place as the original inhabitants of the region. Formerly known as the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Tribal Council, Inc., the tribe’s identity is inextricably linked to the town of Mashpee on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, where their tribal headquarters are located.
Location and Territory:
The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe‘s ancestral lands encompass a vast expanse of southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. In the early 17th century, their territory included the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, where they thrived for centuries. Today, their presence is concentrated in and around Mashpee, but their historical connection to the broader region remains a vital part of their identity.
A History Forged in Contact and Conflict:
The arrival of Europeans marked a turning point in the history of the Wampanoag people. Initial interactions were characterized by trade and alliance, most notably the pivotal role the Wampanoag played in assisting the Pilgrims to survive their first winter in the New World. However, this period of relative cooperation was short-lived.
The introduction of European diseases, for which the Wampanoag had no immunity, decimated their population. The yellow fever epidemic of 1616 stands as a stark example, wiping out an estimated 45,000 individuals across the Wampanoag tribes.
Tensions escalated further as English colonists encroached upon Wampanoag lands and sought to impose their own cultural and religious practices. This culminated in King Philip’s War (1675-1676), a devastating conflict that pitted the Wampanoag, led by Metacomet (known to the English as King Philip), against the colonists. The war resulted in immense loss of life on both sides, but the Wampanoag suffered disproportionately. An estimated 40 percent of the tribe perished, and many survivors were sold into slavery in the West Indies or enslaved within New England.
Resilience and the Fight for Recognition:
Despite the immense challenges they faced, the Wampanoag people persevered. They maintained their cultural traditions, adapted to changing circumstances, and fought to protect their land and rights.
The 20th and 21st centuries saw a renewed focus on achieving federal recognition, a crucial step towards self-determination and access to federal resources. After decades of tireless effort, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe achieved this milestone in 2007.
In 2015, the federal government took 321 acres of land into trust, establishing the tribe’s initial reservation. This land base is vital for housing, cultural preservation, and economic development. Tribal members also own land individually and collectively on Chappaquiddick and in Christiantown, further solidifying their connection to their ancestral territory.
Tribal Governance and Membership:
The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is governed by a tribal council, comprised of four council members and executive officers, including a Chairman, Vice-Chairwoman, Secretary, and Treasurer. Elections are held to determine leadership and ensure that the tribe’s government reflects the will of its people.
Enrollment in the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is based on a set of criteria designed to ensure lineage and community involvement. Applicants must demonstrate direct lineal descent from ancestors listed in the 1859 Earle Report or from specific 19th-century unions. They must also have lived within 20 miles of Mashpee for at least 20 years and be actively involved in tribal community affairs. Furthermore, applicants must not have denounced the tribe or acted in a way that would discredit or harm its reputation. These stringent requirements underscore the tribe’s commitment to preserving its unique identity and cultural heritage.
Language and Cultural Preservation:
The Wampanoag language, Wopanaotaok, is a vital part of the tribe’s cultural heritage. While the language faced near extinction due to the pressures of assimilation, revitalization efforts are underway to restore its fluency and usage. Language programs, cultural events, and educational initiatives are all playing a role in ensuring that future generations of Mashpee Wampanoag children will have the opportunity to learn and speak their ancestral language.
Economic Development and Challenges:
Like many Native American tribes, the Mashpee Wampanoag have explored various avenues for economic development to provide for their members and ensure their long-term sustainability. In recent years, the tribe has pursued opportunities in the gaming industry, proposing the development of a casino on their land in Taunton, Massachusetts. This endeavor has faced legal challenges and internal divisions, highlighting the complex issues surrounding tribal sovereignty and economic self-determination.
Turbulent Times and Leadership Changes:
The early 2000s were marked by internal strife and controversy for the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe. The tenure of Chairman Glenn Marshall was marred by revelations of prior criminal convictions, false claims of military service, and investigations into the tribe’s casino lobbying efforts. Marshall’s successor, Shawn Hendricks, also faced scrutiny for his involvement in the scandal, which implicated lobbyist Jack Abramoff and other individuals in a larger fraud scheme.
These events led to considerable tension within the tribe, with tribal elders seeking access to records detailing the council’s involvement in the scandal. The election of Cedric Cromwell as council chair and president in 2009 brought a promise of reform, but his administration has also faced challenges and protests related to casino-related finances.
Looking to the Future:
Despite the hardships and setbacks they have endured, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe remains a vibrant and resilient community. They are actively engaged in preserving their culture, revitalizing their language, and pursuing economic opportunities that will benefit their members. As they navigate the complexities of the 21st century, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe continues to draw strength from their ancestral heritage and their unwavering commitment to self-determination. The story of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural preservation, the enduring strength of Native American communities, and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is still here.