North Dakota, a state renowned for its vast prairies and rich agricultural heritage, is also home to a significant Native American population. Within its borders lie four distinct Indian reservations, each with its unique history, cultural identity, and sovereign governance. These reservations serve as homelands for several tribal nations, representing a vital part of North Dakota’s cultural tapestry and a testament to the enduring spirit of its indigenous people. This article delves into the details of each of these reservations, exploring their establishment, the tribes they encompass, and the land they steward. Understanding these reservations is crucial for appreciating the complex history and contemporary realities of Native American communities in North Dakota.
Devils Lake Reservation: A Land of Many Tribes
Located in northeastern North Dakota, the Devils Lake Reservation, also known as the Spirit Lake Reservation, is a vibrant community with a rich history. This reservation is home to a diverse group of tribes, including the Assiniboin, Cuthead (Pabaksa), Santee, Sisseton, Yankton, and Wahpeton Sioux. This confluence of different Sioux bands makes the Devils Lake Reservation a unique cultural crossroads.
The establishment of the Devils Lake Reservation is rooted in a series of treaties and agreements with the United States government. The initial groundwork was laid by the Treaty of February 19, 1867 (XV, 505), which aimed to establish a defined territory for these tribes. This was further solidified by an agreement on September 20, 1872, later confirmed in the Indian appropriation act approved on June 22, 1874 (XVIII, 167). These agreements were pivotal in recognizing the tribes’ rights to their ancestral lands.
Initially, the reservation comprised a larger area. However, over time, portions of the land were allotted to individual tribal members. According to historical records, 135,824.33 acres were allotted to 1,193 Indians, while 727.83 acres were reserved for church purposes, and 193.61 acres were set aside for government use. This allotment process, although intended to integrate Native Americans into mainstream society, often resulted in the fragmentation of tribal lands and the erosion of traditional ways of life.
The Act of April 27, 1904 (XXXIII, 319), amended and ratified an agreement made on November 2, 1901, further shaping the land ownership patterns on the reservation. President’s proclamation of June 2, 1904 (XXXIII, 2368), further solidified these changes. Today, the Devils Lake Reservation spans approximately 92,144 acres, a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its people. The reservation continues to strive for self-determination and cultural preservation in the face of ongoing challenges.
Fort Berthold Reservation: Home of the Three Affiliated Tribes
The Fort Berthold Reservation, situated in west-central North Dakota, is the ancestral homeland of the Three Affiliated Tribes: the Arikara, Hidatsa, and Mandan. These tribes, each with their distinct language and traditions, have historically shared a close relationship, often intermarrying and cooperating for mutual defense. The reservation itself bears the name of a former trading post, reflecting the complex history of interaction between Native Americans and European settlers in the region.
The establishment of the Fort Berthold Reservation was a gradual process, shaped by a series of unratified agreements and executive orders. An unratified agreement on September 17, 1851, and another on July 27, 1866, initially outlined the territorial boundaries. Executive orders issued on April 12, 1870, July 13, 1880, and June 17, 1892, further refined these boundaries. The agreement of December 14, 1886, ratified by the act of March 3, 1891 (XXVI, 1032), was a significant step in formalizing the reservation’s status. (See Pres. proc. May 20,1891, XXVII, 979.)
Similar to other reservations, the Fort Berthold Reservation underwent an allotment process. According to historical records, 80,340 acres were allotted to 940 Indians. The remaining land, totaling 884,780 acres, remained unallotted.
The construction of the Garrison Dam in the mid-20th century had a profound and devastating impact on the Fort Berthold Reservation. The dam flooded vast tracts of fertile farmland, displacing hundreds of families and disrupting traditional ways of life. This event remains a source of deep sorrow and resentment among the Three Affiliated Tribes.
Today, the Fort Berthold Reservation encompasses 884,780 acres. The Three Affiliated Tribes are actively working to rebuild their economy, preserve their cultural heritage, and exercise their sovereign rights. The reservation is a place of resilience and determination, where the traditions of the Arikara, Hidatsa, and Mandan people continue to thrive.
Standing Rock Reservation: A Symbol of Resistance
The Standing Rock Reservation, located in both North and South Dakota, is home to the Blackfeet (Sihasapa), Hunkpapa, and Lower and Upper Yanktonai Sioux tribes. This reservation holds a significant place in Native American history, particularly due to the events surrounding the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) protests in 2016.
The establishment of the Standing Rock Reservation can be traced back to the Treaty of April 29, 1868 (XV, 635), which aimed to define the Great Sioux Reservation. However, subsequent executive orders, including those of January 11 and March 16, 1876, and November 28, 1876, significantly reduced the size of the reservation. The agreement ratified by the act of February 28, 1877 (XIX, 254), further altered the territorial boundaries. Executive orders on August 9, 1879, and March 20, 1884, also played a role in shaping the reservation’s land base (1,520,640 acres in South Dakota). The unratified agreement of October 17, 1882, also had implications. (For modification see sundry civil appropriation act approved Mar. 3, 1883, XXII, 624; for text see Misc. Indian Doc. XIV, 305.)
The Act of Congress of April 30, 1888 (XXV, 94), was not accepted. The Act of Congress of March 2, 1899 (XXV, 888). President’s proclamation of February 10, 1890 (XXVI, 1554). Under the act of March 2, 1899 (XXV, 884), and the authority of the President of September 26, 1905.
The Standing Rock Reservation initially underwent allotment, with 2,489 Indians allotted 824,828.44 acres. The remaining land, totaling 1,847,811.56 acres, remained unallotted. The reservation now encompasses 1,847,812 acres.
In 2016, the Standing Rock Reservation gained international attention when thousands of people gathered to protest the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. The pipeline, which was planned to cross under the Missouri River near the reservation, was seen as a threat to the tribe’s water supply and sacred sites. The protests, which lasted for several months, brought renewed attention to the issue of Native American rights and the ongoing struggle to protect their land and resources. The events at Standing Rock became a symbol of resistance against corporate power and environmental destruction.
Today, the Standing Rock Reservation continues to be a center of cultural and political activism. The tribes are working to address issues such as poverty, unemployment, and environmental degradation, while also preserving their language, traditions, and spiritual beliefs.
Turtle Mountain Reservation: A Legacy of Resilience
The Turtle Mountain Reservation, located in north-central North Dakota near the Canadian border, is home to the Pembina Chippewa tribe. This reservation has a unique history, marked by resilience and a strong sense of cultural identity.
The establishment of the Turtle Mountain Reservation was a gradual process, shaped by a series of executive orders. Executive orders issued on December 21, 1882, March 29, and June 3, 1884, initially defined the reservation’s boundaries. The agreement made on October 2, 1892, amended by the Indian appropriation act approved and ratified on April 21, 1904, (XXXIII194), further solidified the reservation’s status.
The Turtle Mountain Reservation also underwent an allotment process. According to historical records, 45,894 acres were allotted to 326 Indians, while 186 acres were reserved for church and school purposes under the above-named act.
Despite its small size, the Turtle Mountain Reservation has a strong sense of community and cultural pride. The Pembina Chippewa tribe is actively working to preserve its language, traditions, and history. The reservation is also home to a number of cultural institutions, including a tribal college and a museum.
The Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians has faced numerous challenges throughout its history, including land loss, poverty, and discrimination. However, the tribe has consistently demonstrated resilience and a determination to preserve its cultural identity. The Turtle Mountain Reservation is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Pembina Chippewa people.
Conclusion
The four Indian reservations in North Dakota represent a diverse and vital part of the state’s cultural landscape. Each reservation has its unique history, traditions, and challenges. By understanding the history and contemporary realities of these reservations, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the contributions of Native American communities to North Dakota and the nation as a whole. The stories of these North Dakota Indian Reservations serve as a reminder of the importance of honoring treaties, protecting tribal sovereignty, and working towards a more just and equitable future for all. These North Dakota Indian Reservations are more than just geographical locations; they are living embodiments of cultural heritage and resilience. Supporting the North Dakota Indian Reservations requires understanding their unique needs and advocating for policies that promote self-determination and cultural preservation. Acknowledging the history of the North Dakota Indian Reservations is crucial for fostering reconciliation and building stronger relationships between Native American communities and the broader society. The future of the North Dakota Indian Reservations depends on collaborative efforts that prioritize the well-being and cultural integrity of the tribal nations.