Skownan First Nation

Skownan First Nation Skownan First Nation, Band # 281, is located in central Manitoba and is a signatory to Treaty #2 signed 1871.

Skownan is an Anishinaabe-speaking community; the name Skownan in Ojibway (Anishinaabe) means "to turn around the point or turning point", originally the name of the Indian reserve. At the treaty 2 signing the name Waterhen or Waterhen River band was used by the commissioner, perhaps geographic names were easier to distinguish and pronounce rather then Cree or Ojibway names. Treaty No. 2 was sign

ed on August 21, 1871 between Her Majesty's Commissioner, Wemyss M. Simpson, and "the Ojibway Tribe of Indians" inhabiting an area to the north and west of the just concluded Treaty No. 1. The purpose of the Treaty was "to open up to settlement and immigration" the land covered by the Treaty, and to ensure there would be "peace and good will between them and Her Majesty. Chiefs and Headmen were named by the assembled Indians. These officials were authorized on their behalf to conduct the negotiations and to sign the Treaty. Chiefs and Headmen were to become responsible to Her Majesty for the faithful performance by their respective bands "of such obligations as shall be assumed by them".

Building a Stronger Future for Skownan First NationSkownan First Nation is honoured to welcome Carol Anne Hilton, MBA, f...
07/29/2026

Building a Stronger Future for Skownan First Nation

Skownan First Nation is honoured to welcome Carol Anne Hilton, MBA, founder of the Indigenomics Institute and a globally recognized Indigenous leader in economic sovereignty and nation-building, as our facilitator for the next few days.

Through her expertise in Indigenomics, Carol Anne is guiding us through an Economic Development Strategy Workshop focused on strengthening our Nation’s economic future. Together, we will explore opportunities rooted in our strengths, governance, self-determination and long-term prosperity for future generations.

This workshop is about more than economic development, it’s about building a path toward Indigenous economic sovereignty, creating lasting value for our people and ensuring the decisions we make today benefit generations to come.

We look forward to learning, collaborating and laying the foundation for a strong and sustainable economic future for Skownan First Nation.

🎬 Skownan First Nation is proud to celebrate one of our own, Bianca McKay.🌾🧡We recognize Bianca for being part of Little...
07/23/2026

🎬 Skownan First Nation is proud to celebrate one of our own, Bianca McKay.🌾🧡

We recognize Bianca for being part of Little House on the Prairie, now streaming on Netflix Canada.

Every opportunity in the film industry is a step toward greater Indigenous representation. Bianca’s involvement is an inspiring reminder that our people belong in every space, including behind and in front of the camera, where our stories, voices, and perspectives matter.

We are incredibly proud of your achievement and the dedication you’ve shown. We look forward to watching your journey continue and can’t wait to see where your dreams take you next.

Congratulations, Bianca, Skownan First Nation is cheering you on every step of the way. 🌟🎥🦅

Skownan First Nation Leadership met today with Indigenous Services Canada as part of a “Priorities and Partnership” meet...
07/23/2026

Skownan First Nation Leadership met today with Indigenous Services Canada as part of a “Priorities and Partnership” meeting.

The meeting provided an important opportunity to discuss Skownan First Nation’s priorities, strengthen our working relationship with Indigenous Services Canada and identify opportunities to move our Nation forward.

We are encouraged by the positive discussions and the collaborative spirit shown throughout the meeting. By working together, we can continue building a stronger future for our community.

Good things are coming to Skownan First Nation. We remain committed to advocating for our members, advancing our priorities, and creating opportunities that will benefit both current and future generations.

07/20/2026

Condolences 💐 to the Catcheway family

07/20/2026

📢 SKOWNAN FIRST NATION COMMUNITY INFO MEETING - Postponed📢

⚠️ Community Notice ⚠️To help protect our waters from the spread of zebra mussels, Skownan First Nation has implemented ...
07/17/2026

⚠️ Community Notice ⚠️

To help protect our waters from the spread of zebra mussels, Skownan First Nation has implemented precautionary measures. Please read the notice and do your part by following all watercraft and boating precautions.

Together, we can protect our waters for future generations. 💙🌊 Meegwetch!

🎣 A Special Day on the WaterOur Jordan’s Principle and Land-Based Team recently took our newest fisherman, Noah, on his ...
07/15/2026

🎣 A Special Day on the Water

Our Jordan’s Principle and Land-Based Team recently took our newest fisherman, Noah, on his very first fishing trip.

At Skownan First Nation, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and participate in our culture. Through the dedication and care of our Jordan’s Principle and Land-Based Team, our children are given meaningful experiences that build confidence, create lasting memories, and strengthen their connection to the land and our traditions.

Miigwech to our Jordan’s Principle and Land-Based Team for the incredible work you do each day to ensure our children are included and supported. Noah’s smile says it all! 💙🎣

Meegwetch Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs 🦬
07/15/2026

Meegwetch Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs 🦬

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs extends our deepest condolences to Skownan First Nation, to the Catcheway family, and to all who are mourning the passing of respected Elder and former Chief Bernard Catcheway.

Chief Catcheway served Skownan First Nation from 1999 to 2003, dedicating himself to the well-being of his community and advocating for the inherent right of First Nations to determine their own future. His leadership, commitment, and service left a lasting mark on his Nation and on those who had the privilege of knowing him.

He was remembered as a strong advocate for his people, a respected Elder and leader, and someone who cared deeply for his community. His legacy will continue to live on through the strength of Skownan First Nation and the many lives he touched throughout his years of service.

We stand in solidarity with Skownan First Nation as they honour and remember a leader who gave so much to his Nation. During this difficult time, we hold the Catcheway family, friends, and community in our thoughts and prayers.

May he journey safely to the Spirit World, and may his family and Nation find comfort in the strength of his legacy.

Miigwetch, Elder and Chief Bernard Catcheway.

Skownan First Nation attended a negotiation meeting regarding the 1938 Surrender “Reassessment” Specific Claim (Adams Cl...
07/14/2026

Skownan First Nation attended a negotiation meeting regarding the 1938 Surrender “Reassessment” Specific Claim (Adams Claim).

During today’s meeting, our negotiation team presented additional historical evidence and supporting documentation to strengthen our position that the unauthorized occupation of our reserve lands began earlier than previously recognized and should be included as part of the ongoing negotiations. This evidence includes historical records and oral histories that help tell the full story of our Nation’s experience.

We remain committed to advocating on behalf of our membership throughout this process. While negotiations take time, today’s meeting marked another important step toward ensuring that the history of Skownan First Nation is fully acknowledged and that our people’s voices continue to be heard.

We thank our negotiation team, legal counsel, researchers, and everyone who has contributed to preserving our history and supporting this important work.

Miigwetch for your continued support as we move forward together. 🪶

Address

HWY/276
Skownan, MB
R0L1Y0

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 9am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 9am - 4:30pm
Thursday 9am - 4:30pm
Friday 9am - 4:30pm

Telephone

2046283373

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