top of page
MENU
Our People
We are diverse, and distinct Nations connected by purpose and through our Lands.
NORTHEAST SUPERIOR PEOPLE
Our Communities have rich cultural histories and traditions, and their members continue to practice and preserve their heritage and values today.
The Chapleau Cree First Nation, Missanabie Cree First Nation, and Brunswick House First Nation are First Nations communities located in northern Ontario, Canada.
IT IS OUR MISSION
To respond to and carry out the collective will of all members.
We are committed to providing responsible and accountable political leadership and to preserving our treaty rights and resources.
CHAPLEAU CREE FIRST NATION
The Chapleau Cree First Nation is situated on 2,560 acres of reserve land, located 5 km southwest of Chapleau. It is the most southerly of all the Ontario Cree First Nations, based on the bottom of the Arctic Watershed. Originally, the Chapleau Cree settlement was located 1 mile east of Chapleau on an area of land connected with the Chapleau and Nebskwashi rivers.
The band chose not to settle on this land after the Township of Chapleau built a sewage reservoir 1,000 feet from the settlement boundaries of the reserve; Instead, they settled in the town of Chapleau.
In 1989, Chapleau Cree negotiated with the Federal and Provincial governments to set aside lands, so that the Band could establish a permanent community. The negotiations were successful, and since the band has settled in their new community on the Fox Lake Reserve, 32 homes and a senior’s residence have been built.
MISSANABIE CREE FIRST NATION
The traditional territory of the Missanabie Cree First Nation is centred around Missinaibi Lake, Dog Lake, and Wabatongushi Lake. They have occupied this area and have utilized its rich resources to provide for their physical, cultural, economic, and spiritual well-being.
Although recognized as a band, the Missanabie Cree have never been provided reserve land under the terms of Treaty #9. In 1996, under their specific claims policy, Canada finally accepted their treaty land entitlement claim for negotiation. Negotiations are ongoing with the government of Ontario for a transfer of land, which will eventually be created into a reserve for the use and benefit of the Missanabie Cree.
The Missanabie Cree are also working toward the development of a vibrant, self-sustaining community in their homeland.
WE HAVE A VISION
Of a people where individuals and families can stand strong
and find healing
through tradition and spirituality; who are loving and compassionate.
WE ARE A
Growing community being led by dedicated members working hard
to build on past successes and develop potential future natural resource opportunities.
BRUNSWICK HOUSE FIRST NATION
The Brunswick House First Nation (FN) was established through Treaty #9, signed between government representatives and First Nation leaders in 1905-1906. However, in 1925 the creation of the Chapleau Game Preserve, which surrounded the First Nation's land, forced them to relocate three times over the next 22 years.
First Nation people who followed a traditional lifestyle were no longer allowed to pursue their subsistence activities in the area. The community faced difficulties in finding a consistent land base, including disputes and loss of land rights.
In 1947, a 36 square mile land base was finally allocated to Brunswick House FN in Mountbatten, but in 1970 a portion of this land was traded for another area off of Borden Lake for improved access to health and education services. Today, Brunswick House FN is located 10 km east of Chapleau on Highway 101.
WE ARE WAHKOHTOWIN
Our People
and Lands have stories to tell
We have been stewards of our lands and waters for thousands of years. Today, we find richness and vibrance through innovation for a conservation economy, the revitalization of our culture and practices, and rekindling our relationship with our Land.
Join our conversation, and share in our collaborative approach to ensure sustainability and harmony within our lands, our people, and our livelihoods for future generations.
bottom of page