Native American History

Isle Royale, situated in the waters of Lake Superior, holds cultural significance for the Ojibwe people and other indigenous groups who have traversed its shores for thousands of years (Clark, 1995). The island, known as Minong in Ojibwe tradition, has been a focal point for spiritual practice, subsistence, and cultural heritage for the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa (Ojibwe).

The Ojibwe connection to Isle Royale stretches back through generations, with the island serving as a traditional cultural property where practices such as hunting, trapping, maple sugaring, fishing, and plant gathering have been integral to their way of life. Fishing, in particular, holds importance, not only for sustenance but also as a means of cultural preservation. Many members of the Grand Portage Band continue to fish in the waters surrounding Minong, continuing traditions passed down through family and community ties. From a spiritual perspective, Ojibwe traditions state that Mishepeshu, the underwater lynx, resides in the waters off Minong.

The archaeological record of Isle Royale traces back over 4,500 years. The Archaic stage witnessed the emergence of copper mining and working, marking the beginning of a long relationship between indigenous peoples and the island's resources. However, specific details about these early inhabitants, such as the Laurel culture, remain elusive due to the mixing of archaeological layers over time. The Terminal Woodland substage, spanning from around A.D. 600 to contact with Europeans, was a period of cultural diversity and exchange across the Upper Great Lakes. Indigenous groups journeyed to Isle Royale from various regions, reflecting a landscape of permeable territories and constant interaction. The proliferation of stylistic variability in ceramics highlights the dynamic nature of cultural exchange during this time.

Follow indigenous cultures at Isle Royale throughout time by using the links on this page! See the Interactive Map below!