Tribal Overview

The Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians is a federally recognized Native American tribe located on the Turtle Mountain Indian Reservation in Belcourt, North Dakota.

The tribe has 30,722 enrolled members (2010 BIA Labor Force Report), with a little over 16,500 living on or adjacent to the 6 x 12 reservation.

Historical Overview

The reservation was established by Executive Orders of December 21, 1882, and March 29, 1884 on an area of 72,000 acres of land. This initial land base proved to be inadequate for the population of the reservation.

In order to meet the land needs of the people, additional land was allotted in western North Dakota and Montana, known as the Trenton Indian Service Area.

Cultural Overview

The Cultures of Native Americans on this continent have had an impact on America. Some aspects of the lifeways and cultures of native peoples have been adapted by the contemporary American Society.

Native peoples contributed foods, medicines, and languages to the Europeans with whom they came into contact. Pumpkins, squash, wild rice, and pemmican are examples of food which were introduced by Native Americans.