We are proud to unveil a new historical timeline on our website, BurtLakeBand.org. This interactive feature was created as part of our Michigan Humanities Grant, which we received to give better access to our rich yet often overlooked history.

The timeline offers a journey through pivotal moments in the story of the Burt Lake Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, shining a light on events and experiences that have shaped our community. From the signing of the Treaty of Washington in 1836 to the Burt Lake Burnout where our tribe was dispossessed of its ancestral lands, this timeline gives a brief glimpse into the rich history of the Burt Lake Band.

Our hidden history, long neglected in mainstream narratives, is now accessible for all to explore. This effort is an extension of the work captured in our book, A Cloud Over The Land, which provides an in-depth account of our past and the challenges we have faced. Together, the book and the timeline are valuable resources for anyone looking to better understand the Burt Lake Band’s legacy and our ongoing contributions to Michigan’s cultural tapestry.

We invite you to visit BurtLakeBand.org and explore the timeline. It is an opportunity to connect with the stories of our ancestors and deepen your understanding of the history that shapes us today.

Miigwech (thank you) for your support as we continue to share our story and preserve our heritage for future generations.