NEW JERSEY STATE - Long before European settlers arrived, the land we now call New Jersey was home to a vibrant and diverse population of Indigenous peoples. These were the original inhabitants of the "Garden State," whose legacy continues to shape the state's identity.
The First New Jerseyans: The Indigenous Peoples of the Garden State
The Lenni Lenape: The most prominent group was the Lenni Lenape, often called the Delaware Indians. They were an Algonquian-speaking people who inhabited most of present-day New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, southeastern New York State, and northern Delaware.
Lifeways: The Lenni Lenape were skilled hunters, fishers, and farmers. They cultivated corn, beans, and squash and supplemented their diet with wild plants and animals. They lived in villages of wigwams and longhouses and were organized into clans with a matrilineal system, meaning lineage was traced through the mother's side.
Connection to the Land: The Lenni Lenape had a deep spiritual connection to the land and its resources. They believed in respecting and preserving the natural world, a philosophy that resonates with modern environmental concerns.
Forced Displacement
With the arrival of European colonists in the 17th century, the Lenni Lenape faced displacement, disease, and warfare. Through a series of treaties and forced removals, they were gradually pushed westward, ultimately finding refuge in Oklahoma and Canada.
Other Indigenous Groups: While the Lenni Lenape were the most numerous, other groups also called New Jersey home:
- The Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape: Located in southern New Jersey, this group represents a merger of Lenni Lenape and Nanticoke people who migrated north from Maryland.
- The Ramapough Lenape Indian Nation: Also known as the Ramapough Mountain Indians, this tribe resides in northern New Jersey and is recognized as descendants of the Lenni Lenape.
- The Powhatan Renape Nation: Located in southern New Jersey, they have ancestral ties to the Lenni Lenape and the Powhatan Confederacy of Virginia.
Legacy and Recognition:
Today, several organizations represent the interests of New Jersey's Indigenous peoples. They work to preserve their cultural heritage, advocate for their rights, and educate the public about their history.
The New Jersey Commission on American Indian Affairs: This state commission aims to address the needs and concerns of New Jersey's Native American communities.
Tribal Communities: The Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Tribal Nation, the Powhatan Renape Nation, and the Ramapough Lenape Indian Nation all maintain active communities and cultural centers in New Jersey.
It is crucial to remember the original inhabitants of New Jersey and acknowledge their ongoing contributions to the state. Learning about their history, culture, and struggles is essential for understanding the complex tapestry of New Jersey's past and present.
