Lake Babine Nation facts for kids

Lake Babine Nation (also known as Nataotin or Nat'oot'en Nation) is a Babine First Nation government. They have historically lived along the shores of Babine Lake in central British Columbia, Canada.

Their main community is Woyenne, located near Burns Lake. Many members moved there in the 1940s. Other communities where people live all year are Tachet, in the middle of Babine Lake, and Wit'at (Fort Babine), at the end of the lake's northwest arm. Some communities, like Nedo'ats (Old Fort) and Donald's Landing (Pinkut Nation), are used seasonally.

The Lake Babine Nation has about 2,000 members. Some live on reserve lands, while others live elsewhere. Their traditional language is Babine-Witsuwit'en. This language is part of the larger Northern Athabaskan language family.

The nation was officially formed in December 1957. This happened when the Canadian government combined the Fort Babine and Old Fort Bands. Today, the Lake Babine Nation is involved in stage 4 of the British Columbia Treaty Negotiation Process. This process aims to settle land claims and self-government agreements.

Main Communities of Lake Babine Nation

The Lake Babine Nation has several important communities. Each community offers different services and has its own unique feel.

Woyenne: The Main Hub

Woyenne is the largest community of the Lake Babine Nation. It has about 940 residents. It is right next to the town of Burns Lake, British Columbia.

Even though it's close to Burns Lake, Woyenne has its own facilities. These include a preschool, a kindergarten, a daycare, and an adult learning centre. The main office for the Lake Babine Nation government is also located in Woyenne.

Wit'at: A Community with a Strong Identity

Wit'at, also known as Fort Babine, is home to about 60 permanent residents. This community has an elementary school, a health clinic, and a water treatment plant. There is also a smaller band office here.

Because of the forced combining of bands in the 1950s, some people in Wit'at feel a strong desire for their community to be separate. They sometimes refer to themselves as the "Wit'at Nation."

Tachet: A Central Lakeside Village

Tachet is another important community with about 130 permanent residents. It also has a satellite band office and a water treatment plant. For daily needs, there is a convenience store in Tachet.

Understanding Lake Babine Clans

The Lake Babine Nation has a rich history and culture. A key part of their traditional social structure involves clans. These clans are like large family groups that share a common ancestor or symbol.

Traditionally, the Lake Babine Nation has four main clans:

• Jilh tsekh xu (Frog)
• Likh c’ bu (Bear)
• Likh tsa mis xu (Beaver)
• Gilanton (Cariboo)

These clans play an important role in their culture and traditions.