Chappiquiddic Tribe
Kawonkamish (Greetings)
Koonepeam (You are Welcome)
On behalf of our Tribe and Tribal Council, we extend our warmest welcome to you. Our people are the Native American descendants of the First People who inhabited the area of Chappiquiddic (Chippi-ahquedne) on the island of Noepe, now known as Martha's Vineyard. Since ancient times, our ancestors have spoken the Algonquian language, specifically the "N" or Natick dialect. The English Colonial records called us Pahkepunnass, the name of our Sachem or Chief, in 1643. The Pokanoket called us the Capowak, which means "the separate people."
Arrival of the English
When the Pilgrims arrived in 1620, our ancestors recognized Weesoemequn (Yellowfeather) as a Massasoit, the Great Sachem, or Chief of all Chiefs. Though this position no longer exists, the Massasoit, Yellowfeather, appointed trusted advisors called Sagamores who represented different regions. Our people welcomed the Pilgrims and saved them from starvation, allying a total of twenty-five bands, with "Bands" being a term used then to denote a small Tribe and fourteen larger tribes on the mainland. On Martha's Vineyard, there were nine tribes or bands and two on Nantucket. Each band, or small tribe, was led by a sachem (Chief) of the tribe's own choosing.
ASNUTANEYAN
(WE ARE STILL HERE)
The Chappaquiddic Tribe is a modern-day representation of the original nine Small Tribes (Bands) on the Islands. Today, we are known as the Chappiquiddic Tribe of The Massachuset Nation. Our real name in our original language of Algonquin is Chippi-Ayeuonk, which means "Separate and Free." We are proud to have preserved the correct spelling of our ancestral name, Chappaquiddic, without the "K" at the end of the word. The spelling with the "K" came from the Settlers who arrived in our land.
Our ancestors have a rich history and culture that we value deeply. Our Tribe and Tribal Council continue to work toward preserving our traditions, beliefs, and language while adapting to the challenges of the modern world. We hope this information provides a deeper understanding of our culture and history and fosters mutual respect and appreciation for each other's unique heritage.