Introduction
Documents for review: 1863 1864 1872
The Red Bear Band of Pembina Chippewa Indians, also known as the Adik Doodem or Caribou Clan, historically operated trading routes originating along the Red River and its tributaries. Historical routes would extend west from the Red River to the Cypress Hills along the border of current Alberta and Saskatchewan; north to Lake Winnipeg; south along the Mississippi river through Missouri into the Caribbean and to the Yucatan Peninsula where they are known in Guatemala and Palenque, Chiapas Mexico with the Maya whom they are related to by generational intermarriage.
The Red Bear family is a community deeply rooted in treaty rights, ancestral heritage, and a living responsibility towards future generations. The band’s history is marked by significant treaties, legal challenges, and ongoing efforts to preserve its sovereignty and cultural identity.
Historical Background
Formation and Early History
The Pembina Chippewa Tribe was originally a geographically defined band of Ojibwe (Chippewa) people, known as the Aniibiminani-ziibiwininiwag in Ojibwe. This group was composed of extended family groups and heavily intermixed with Cree and French-Canadian/Métis individuals during the fur trade era. The tribe’s traditional lands spanned across what is now Minnesota and parts of North Dakota, with trading routes prior identified.
Key Historical Events
- 1863 Old Crossing Treaty: This treaty marked a significant land cession by the Red Lake and Pembina bands to the United States. The treaty included provisions for annuity payments and reserved lands for chiefs like Red Bear.
- 1864 Supplementary Articles: These articles amended the original treaty, adjusting annuity payments and providing additional resources and personnel to support the tribes.
- 1892 McCumber Agreement: Known as the “Ten-Cent Treaty,” this agreement drastically reduced the land claims of the Turtle Mountain Chippewa, including members of the Pembina Band. Notably, Chief Red Bear and Chief Joseph Montrieul rejected and did not sign this agreement. In August of 2023 in the District Court of Washington D.C. it was affirmed that the Turtle Mountain Reservations land sale did not impact or abrogate the rights of the Red Bear family as they had not signed onto the agreement.
Treaties and Legal Framework
Old Crossing Treaty (1863)
The Old Crossing Treaty, signed on October 2, 1863, established peace and land cession agreements between the United States and the Red Lake and Pembina bands. Key provisions included:
- Perpetual peace and friendship between the parties.
- Annual annuity payments to the bands.
- Allocation of land for chiefs and headmen.
Supplementary Articles (1864)
Concluded on April 12, 1864, these articles further defined the U.S. commitments, including:
- Adjusted annuity payments.
- Provision of supplies and personnel for 15 years.
- Issuance of scrip to mixed-blood individuals in lieu of land.
Reservation for Red Bear (1872)
In 1872, correspondence from the Department of the Interior addressed the challenges faced by Red Bear, Chief of the Pembina Chippewas, in securing his designated 640-acre reservation. Due to settlement encroachments, legislation was recommended to allow Red Bear to select land on both sides of the Pembina River.
Current Initiatives and Leadership
Cultural Preservation and Education
The Pembina Chippewa Band is committed to preserving its language, culture, and history. Initiatives include:
- Language revitalization programs for learning Ojibwe.
- Cultural education through community events and workshops.
- Preservation of sacred records and publications.
Governance and Sovereignty
The Pembina Chippewa Band maintains its governance structure, rooted in traditional leadership roles and legal frameworks that affirm their sovereignty. Key legal cases have reinforced the band’s rights to self-governance and land claims.
Reunification Efforts
Efforts are underway to reunify the divided Little Shell Band and Red Bear Band, with descendants like Chief Midegah Ogichidaa leading the charge. These efforts aim to strengthen the band’s unity and collective identity.
Conclusion
The Pembina Chippewa Band’s history is marked by resilience and a steadfast commitment to preserving its sovereignty and cultural heritage. Through treaties, legal victories, and ongoing initiatives, the band continues to uphold its rights and responsibilities, ensuring that future generations remain connected to their rich legacy.
Historical Records
- Date: October 2, 1863
- Key Provisions:
- Perpetual peace and friendship
- Land cession and annuity payments
- Reservation allocations for chiefs
- Date: April 12, 1864
- Key Provisions:
- Adjusted annuity payments
- Provision of supplies and personnel for 15 years
- Issuance of scrip to mixed-blood individuals
1872 Correspondence on Red Bear’s Reservation
- Date: March 8, 1872
- Key Points:
- Challenges in securing a contiguous reservation for Red Bear
- Recommendation for legislative authorization to select land on both sides of the Pembina River
These records are essential components of the Pembina Chippewa Band’s historical narrative, documenting the commitments and challenges faced over the years. They serve as a testament to the band’s enduring sovereignty and cultural resilience.