The Potawatomi live in scattered settlements in Forest County. The reservation encompasses almost 12,000 square acres. The total Tribal enrollment is around 999 with slightly more than half living on the reservation.

Originally located in Eastern Canada, the tribe migrated to the Western Lake Michigan area. As white settlers moved in, the tribe was relocated to Kansas. Many opposed removal and went to live in areas of Northern Wisconsin, Michigan and Canada. The tribe purchased it's own land with Treaty monies in 1913.

The Potawatomi are a member of the Confederacy of the Chippewa and Ottawa, and were given the task of keeping the sacred fire, hence the name "Keeper of the Fire."

 

Northern Lights Bingo and Casino is a main source of employment for tribal members as well as other residents of Forest County. The Forest County Health & Wellness Center, Indian Springs Lodge, Tribal Government offices and Tribal logging operation are other employment sources. The tribal headquarters is located east of Crandon.

 

 

Annual Events:

T.R.A.I.L.S Powwow,March

MNO KENO MAGE WEN Powwow, August..