Aroostook Band of Micmacs facts for kids
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Location of the Aroostook Band of Micmac Trust Land
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| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 1,110+ | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
 United States ( Maine) |
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| Languages | |
| English, Mi'kmaq | |
| Religion | |
| Roman Catholicism, traditional tribal religion |
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| Related ethnic groups | |
| Other Mi'kmaq people |
The Aroostook Band of Micmacs is a Native American tribe. They are a federally recognized tribe, which means the United States government officially recognizes them. They are part of the larger Mi'kmaq people. The tribe is based in Aroostook County, Maine.
The Micmacs call themselves Ulustuk. There are 28 groups, or "bands," of Mi'kmaq people. The Aroostook Band is special because it is the only one located in the United States. The other bands live mostly in Canada.
The Aroostook Micmacs made history on July 6, 1776. They were the first non-U.S. power to sign a treaty with the United States. This important agreement was called the Treaty of Watertown.
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Where They Live
The Aroostook Band of Micmacs does not have a traditional reservation. However, they own about 1,350 acres (5.5 square kilometers) of land. This land is called "trust land." It is held in trust by the U.S. government for the tribe.
According to the United States Census Bureau in 2010, about 197 people lived on their trust lands. These lands are located in the town of Limestone. The tribe's main office, or headquarters, is in Presque Isle.
How They Are Governed
The Aroostook Band of Micmacs is led by a governing council. This council has nine members. Each member serves for two years. They work together to make decisions for the tribe.
Their Ancestral Homeland
The Aroostook Band of Micmacs belongs to a large group of people. They are known as the Mi'kmaq, and they speak an Algonquian language. Their traditional homeland is very large. It stretches far northeast to Newfoundland in Canada.
Historically, their lands also included Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. These are all in Canada. A big part of New Brunswick and a small part of Quebec were also their ancestral lands. The name "Mi'kmaq" is thought to come from the word "nikmaq." This means "my kin friends," referring to their allies.
Federal Recognition
The Aroostook Band of Micmacs worked for a long time to gain official recognition from the U.S. government. Their efforts were successful. They became a federally recognized tribe on November 26, 1991. This recognition was a big step for the tribe.
Images for kids
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Flag of the Aroostook Band of Micmac Indians
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Location of the Aroostook Band of Micmac Trust Land
