Seneca Indian Culture

With a proud and rich history that extends back some 500 years, the Senecas Nation of Indians is the largest of six Native American nations which comprise the Iroquois Confederacy.

The Seneca Nation currently has a total enrolled population of 7,800 members. The territories are generally rural, with several residential areas. Many Seneca members live off-territory, some are located across the country, as well as in other countries. Off-territory residents comprise a total population of 3,854 as of February 2010.

Known as the “Keepers of the Western Door,” for they are the westernmost of the Six Nations, Seneca at the time of the formation of the Iroquois League, the five nations occupied territories from the East to the West, the Senecas being the "keepers of the western door". In the Senecas language their name translates to O-non-dowa-gah, or "Great Hill People."

The historical Seneca occupied territory from the Genesee River to Canandaigua Lake in Western New York, living in long houses on the riverside. Their villages were well fortified with wooden stake fences, just one of their many industrious undertakings.

They relied heavily on agriculture for food, growing the three sisters: corn, squash and beans, which they referred to as Deohako, "the life supporters." In addition to raising crops, the early Seneca also sustained themselves by hunting and fishing.

The Senecas were also great conquerors, highly skilled at warfare, and considered fierce adversaries. But they were also sophisticated politicians, adopting a democratic governmental system with a constitution.The Confederacy as a form of democratic government pre-dates the United States Constitution.

Today the Senecas Nation supports its own people and benefits surrounding communities with a variety of cultural, educational and economic efforts. Its varied enterprises include: world-class casino gaming and hospitality, which employ over 3,500 area residents, as well as tax-free tobacco and gasoline industry ventures.

Through the enterprises of the Nation, revenues are generated to provide necessary services and programs to all tribal members, especially youth and elder population.

Seneca culture and values remain strong and intact. The vibrancy of their rich heritage is evident in the cultural events, dance, music, arts, crafts and foods that visitors are invited to experience.

Click here to learn more about the Seneca Indian Culture.

Native Roots Artists Guild

Mission

The Native Roots Artists Guild is a non-profit community organization dedicated to promoting and supporting Haudenosaunee artists. The Guild was founded in 2010 by a group of volunteer artists, with assistance from the Seneca Nation of Indians Planning Department, and is led by a Board of Directors elected by member artists. The mission of the Native Roots Artists Guild is to maintain a support network for Haudenosaunee artists, perpetuate Haudenosaunee culture, and promote community awareness and appreciate of the arts.

Native Roots Artist Guild