Shinnecock Nation Celebrates Reclamation of First Piece of Aboriginal Land in Over 400 Years Historic Ceremony Marks a Triumph for the Shinnecock People

The Shinnecock Nation is proud to announce the successful purchase of a sacred piece of land located at 13 Indian Road, adjacent to West Woods. This marks a historic moment for the Shinnecock people, as it is the first piece of aboriginal land reclaimed under the Nation’s governance in over four centuries.

The official signing of the property’s transfer was conducted by designated members of the Shinnecock Nation’s Council of Trustees, who were joined by elders, community members, and former Tribal leaders. The event was a momentous occasion in the ongoing struggle for the restoration of the Nation's ancestral lands.

In celebration of this significant event, leadership invited the community to gather at West Woods on Wednesday, May 21 at 5:00 PM for a ceremony to honor the land. The ceremony included a traditional smudging, song, and prayer to welcome the land back home to its rightful stewardship. This powerful gathering was not only a spiritual event but a reaffirmation of the Shinnecock Nation’s enduring connection to their ancestral territory, which is vital to the community’s spirit, strength, and resiliency.

“Our reclamation of this land is just the beginning—it’s a victory for our culture, our people, and our future,” said Shinnecock leadership. “It is an expression of unity, deep spiritual dedication, and a reaffirmation of our sacred duty to care for this land, as our ancestors did before us.”

The event was marked by a sense of joy and renewal, as the Shinnecock Nation continues its efforts to heal, protect, and preserve its heritage for future generations. The land reclaiming signifies a renewed commitment to the values that have sustained the Shinnecock people for thousands of years: stewardship, respect for the land, and a deep spiritual connection to their roots.