New York's Native Americans: A Proud Part of the Birth of Our Nation.

The role of Native Americans in the establishment of our great nation is all too often overlooked.

Long before the arrival of Europeans on the shores of North America, these industrious and courageous native peoples were forging a home and a way of life for themselves and their children all across New York State.

As the French, British and Native Americans came into contact, friendships, as well as conflicts, inevitably developed. Through it all, the Native Americans held true to one dream — preserving their home and proud culture for generations to come.

We encourage you to learn more about the valiant struggles and invaluable contributions of the Native American people during this pivotal period in our nation’s history. Relive the excitement by visiting the museums described in this section of our brochure, as well as the many historic sites along the New York Independence Trail.

Click for a large image of the American Indian Tribes

SHAKO:WI CULTURAL CENTER

The Shako:wi Cultural Center houses a wealth of Oneida Indians history and traditions inside its striking white pine-log structure. Located on Oneida Indian Nation lands on Rt. 46 in Oneida, NY. (315) 829-8801 or www.oneida-nation.net/shakowi

IROQUOIS INDIAN MUSEUM

Constructed in the shape of a traditional longhouse, the Iroquois Indian Museum celebrates Iroquois culture and diversity. Located at 324 Caverns Road in Howes Cave, NY. (518) 296-8949 or www.iroquoismuseum.org

SENECA-IROQUOIS NATIONAL MUSEUM

Located on the Allegany Territory of the Seneca Nation, the museum includes a partial permanent replica of a longhouse with a number of ancestral materials detailing the history of the Senecas in Western New York. Located at 814 Broad Street in Salamanca, NY. (716) 945-1760 or www.senecamuseum.org

ONONDAGA HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION MUSEUM & RESEARCH CENTER

Featured here are Onondagan artwork and artifacts, and an exhibit examining the Onondaga and Iroquois Confederacy before and after the American Revolution. Located at 321 Montgomery St. in Syracuse, NY. (315) 428-1864 or www.cnyhistory.org

The NOTEWORTHY INDIAN MUSEUM

With over 60,000 artifacts including clay pots, stone tools, beadwork and baskets, the story of the Mohawk from 12,000 years ago to the present is told in a captivating, family-friendly manner. Located at 100 Church Street in Amsterdam, NY. (518) 843-4761 or www.greatturtle.net

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