Discovering Indigenous Heritage in Muskegon County
At Visit Muskegon, we’re excited to share the rich Indigenous heritage that adds depth to our community. In this blog, we’ll explore the history of the Muskegon name, delve into the area's Indigenous roots, and celebrate the art and traditions that shape our region today. Join us as we share Native American culture in Muskegon County!
Rich History and Culture
The Muskegon area is rich in history, with its early inhabitants consisting mainly of bands from the Ottawa and Pottawatomi tribes. The name "Muskegon" has its origins in Indigenous culture, stemming from the Ottawa Indian term "Masquigon," which translates to "marshy river" or "swamp." This term was recorded on French maps in the late 17th century.
One notable figure from this region is Chief Pendalouan. His tribe lived around Big Blue Lake. In honor of Chief Pendalouan, Camp Williams was renamed "Camp Pendalouan" in the 1930s. This renaming preserves the legacy of Indigenous leadership in the area. The camp continues to thrive, offering a serene, rustic escape for campers on more than 105 acres of mature oak-pine forest.
Cultural Awareness and Education
A significant historical landmark connecting both Native American and settler histories is the Old Indian Cemetery on Morris Street in Downtown Muskegon. As the oldest known Indian cemetery in the area, it dates back to the early 1800s and provides a connection to the past.
Established on land deeded by sawmill owner Martin Ryerson, it was used by the Ottawa as early as 1750. The cemetery functioned as a burial ground for both Indigenous people and settlers from 1806 to 1854. A historical marker at the site reminds visitors of its significance: “This cemetery was already established when the first white man came to this area.”
For those interested in learning more about Indigenous heritage, the Muskegon Museum of History and Science offers the "Coming to the Lakes" exhibit. This exhibit showcases artifacts, such as projectile points and historic ephemera. Through dioramas and programs, visitors can gain insight into the daily lives and history of Muskegon County's Indigenous peoples.
Recognition and Respect
The recognition of Indigenous contributions continues in contemporary art. Anishinaabe artist Jason Quigno’s sculpture "All My Relations," installed on the Visitor Center lawn in 2018, serves as a modern representation of Native American culture. Crafted from 12,000 pounds of black granite, the hand-carved totem features swirling circles that symbolize the Seven Grandfather teachings: Love, Respect, Honesty, Bravery, Truth, Humility, and Wisdom. You can view an interview with Quigno discussing the significance of his work on YouTube.
Community Engagement
The Muskegon Museum of Art enhances the local cultural landscape by showcasing both historic and contemporary Native American art. Notably, the museum houses a collection of 723 photogravures by Edward Curtis, focusing on Native American photography. In 2017, the museum hosted a landmark exhibition featuring all these pieces. This display is believed to be the largest-ever exhibition of Curtis’s work.
Additionally, the museum features permanent pieces by Jonathan Thunder, an Ojibwe artist who presented a major exhibit in 2022. A member of the Red Lake Ojibwe Nation, Thunder contributes to the artistic dialogue about Native American culture through his work. In 2024, he served as the juror for the MMA's 95th Michigan Contemporary Art Exhibition.