HAUDENOSAUNEE/NATIVE AMERICAN AND INDIGENOUS PEOPLES

The Haudenosaunee Confederacy traditionally occupied vast areas of land that extended across much of what is now New York State, along with parts of Pennsylvania, Ontario, and Quebec. Their territory included the Finger Lakes region, the Mohawk Valley, and the Niagara frontier, encompassing fertile lands, rich forests, and abundant waterways that provided resources for their agricultural, hunting, and fishing practices.

The Land of Orleans County

Though Orleans County was not a central hub for any one Haudenosaunee nation, it was part of the western territories closely associated with the Seneca Nation, the "Keepers of the Western Door." The Seneca were tasked with protecting the western boundary of Haudenosaunee lands and often traversed the region as part of their duties.

The county's proximity to Lake Ontario, its dense forests, and access to key waterways made it a natural part of Haudenosaunee territory for hunting, fishing, and trade. The Oak Orchard River and other smaller waterways in Orleans County were vital to seasonal movements and sustenance practices. Evidence of their presence can still be found in place names and archaeological sites throughout the region.

Seasonal Use and Stewardship

The Haudenosaunee lived in harmony with the land, practicing sustainable agriculture and resource management. They utilized a rotational system for planting crops, allowing soil to regenerate and remain fertile. Their "Three Sisters" agricultural system—corn, beans, and squash planted together—was both ecologically efficient and nutritionally balanced.

In addition to agriculture, the Haudenosaunee relied on the natural bounty of the land in Orleans County. Forests provided game such as deer and turkey, while rivers yielded fish like trout and salmon. Wild plants, nuts, and berries were gathered seasonally, ensuring no resource was overharvested.

Trails and Trade Routes

Orleans County was crisscrossed by trails used for trade and communication. These trails linked Haudenosaunee communities to other Indigenous nations and later facilitated the movements of European settlers. Some of these trails evolved into modern roads, and their legacy remains a part of the county’s geography.

Respect for the Land

The Haudenosaunee hold a deep spiritual connection to the land, viewing it as a shared resource to be cared for collectively. This philosophy informed their practices and ensured that the region remained abundant for future generations. Their enduring respect for nature continues to inspire modern conservation efforts.

TERRITORIES OF THE PEOPLE OF THE LONG HOUSE

Exhibiting the Home Country of the Iroquois with the Aboriginal Names of their Villages, Lakes, Rivers, Streams & ancient Localities, and the Courses of their principal Trails.

by Lewis H. Morgan (1851)

View the High-Resolution Map