Squaxin Island facts for kids
Squaxin Island is a special place located in the very southwestern part of Puget Sound in Mason County, Washington, United States. It's not just any island; it's an Indian reservation that belongs to the Native American Squaxin Island Tribe.
This island is quite large, covering about 5.739 square kilometers (which is about 2.216 square miles). Even though it's a good size, no one lives there permanently, according to the 2000 census.
Squaxin Island is separated from another island called Harstine Island by a narrow waterway known as Peale Passage.
The name "Squaxin" comes from an old word in the Lushootseed language, which is the language spoken by the Squaxin Island Tribe. The original placename was "sqʷax̌səd."
History of Squaxin Island
Squaxin Island has an interesting past. It used to be home to a Washington State Park. However, this park was later closed, and the land was given back to the Squaxin Island Tribe. This return of land is important because it recognizes the tribe's historical connection to the island.
The Squaxin Island Tribe
The Squaxin Island Tribe is a group of Native American people who have lived in the Puget Sound area for a very long time. Their reservation on Squaxin Island is a place that is important to their culture and heritage. An Indian reservation is an area of land managed by a Native American tribe under the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs, rather than by the state government. These lands are set aside for the tribes and their members.
Location and Geography
Squaxin Island is situated within the large body of water known as Puget Sound. Puget Sound is an inlet of the Pacific Ocean, famous for its many islands, waterways, and beautiful scenery. The island is part of Mason County, Washington, which is located in the western part of Washington state.
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