 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (February 2023) |
 | |
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 6,800 enrolled members | |
| Languages | |
| Ojibwe, Michif, Cree, English[1] | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| other Anishinaabeg (Ojibwe, and Cree peoples), and Métis |
Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians of Montana (Ojibwe language: Esensininiwag) is a federally recognized tribe of Ojibwe, Métis, and Cree people in Montana.[1][2][3] The name of the tribe is often shortened to Little Shell. The current population of enrolled tribal members is approximately 6,800.[4] They have a 35,000-sq. foot office complex in Great Falls.[citation needed]
Named for its 19th-century leader, Esens, known as "Little Shell". It was formerly known as the Little Shell Band of Landless Chippewa Indians of Montana because the Little Shell went without an Indian reservation, having conflicts with federal authorities dating back to the 19th century. Though considered "landless", the tribe was state recognized in Montana for many years prior to federal recognition. The National Defense Authorization Act, which was signed into law on December 20, 2019, finally granted the Tribe Federal recognition. The tribe now owns 735 acres of land in and around Great Falls, Montana, and manages the Hell Creek Recreation Area.[5][6]
Members elect a government of a chairman and Tribal Council according to their constitution. While headquartered in Great Falls, tribal members live throughout Montana, particularly in Havre, Lewistown, Helena, Butte, Chinook, Hays, Wolf Point, Hamilton, Billings.
- ^ a b "Language Resources". Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians of Montana. Retrieved 24 January 2023.
- ^ McLaughlin, Kathleen (21 Dec 2019). "A big moment finally comes for the Little Shell: Federal recognition of their tribe". Retrieved 21 December 2019.
- ^ "Culture". Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians of Montana. Retrieved 26 June 2023.
- ^ "2023 Annual Report" (PDF). Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians of Montana. Retrieved 20 December 2023.
- ^ "Montana Cadastral". Montana Cadastral. Montana State Library. Retrieved 24 January 2023.
- ^ "Little Shell Tribe gains lease to take over Montana state park". Great Falls Tribune. 10 December 2021. Retrieved 1 February 2023.
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