Who We Are
The Burt Lake Band is federally recognized by treaty. Our ancestors were among those who signed the 1836 Treaty of Washington and the 1855 Treaty of Detroit. We, the descendants, are still here in Brutus, Michigan.
Read Our History:
Traditional Foods Project
Our band is exploring and learning about our history through traditional foods. This two-year project involves teachings from knowledgeable native instructors about topics such as spear-fishing, making maple syrup, using indigenous plants for food and medicine, and much more.
Would you like to stay connected with the Burt Lake Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians? Join our quarterly newsletter to receive the latest updates on current events, fundraisers, captivating history articles, and more. We are eager to share with you and warmly invite you learn more about our vibrant community.
Recent Articles
WKAR PBS radio features The Burt Lake Burn-Out on “Michigan Minute”
WKAR PBS radio featured the Burt Lake Band on their "Michigan Minute" segment. The segment played on October 15, 2023, the anniversary of the Burn-Out. Chi Miigwetch to WKAR for remembering us and helping us tell our story. You can listen to the segment here:...
A Portal to the Burt Lake Band’s Violent Expulsion
On the rainy night of Oct. 15, 1900, the adults, children and elders of the Cheboiganing Band of Ottawa and Chippewa were forced out of their beds and made to watch as their houses were doused with kerosene and burned to the ground. Only the Catholic church was spared from ruin.
A Dream of Fundamental Justice
This article was originally published in the University of Michigan College of Literature, Science and the Arts LSA Magazine. In 1900, the Burt Lake Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians lost their land and rightful place as a sovereign nation. Today, with input from...