The Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation app is now available

The Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation, or Neyaashiinigmiing Anishinaabek, are an Anishinaabek people. The Nation is named after Chief Nawash, who fought beside Tecumseh in the War of 1812. Its main reserve, formerly called Cape Croker, was officially named Neyaashiinigmiing on January 21, 1992. The name means "point of land surrounded on three sides by water." Together with Saugeen First Nation, the Nation forms the Saugeen Ojibway Nation.

The Nation has three reserves:

• Neyaashiinigmiing 27
• Cape Croker Hunting Ground 60B
• Saugeen and Cape Croker Fishing Islands 1

In 1857, the Owen Sound (Newash) lands were surrendered to the Crown under Treaty 82, and the people were moved to Cape Croker. The Colpoy's Bay band later joined with the Chippewas of Nawash. The Saugeen Ojibway Nation maintains in court that its harvesting rights within its traditional territory were not extinguished by Treaty 72 (1854). It also claims Aboriginal title over the waters around the peninsula.

Community life includes the Neyaashiinigmiing Annual Traditional Powwow at Cape Croker Park and a Language Nest Program for Anishinaabemowin. Community services include a health centre, a police service, a food bank, a seniors centre, social and family services, and the radio station CHFN-FM. A new community arena was expected to open in 2026. Learn more at nawash.ca.