Statements made on this site are based on many decades of research both from written and oral sources. The oral information has been documented over the years from Haudenosaunee some of whom have passed on. It is important to note that Zig Misiak is in constant contact and dialogue with Haudenosaunee and every effort is made to keep an open mind concerning every aspect of their history and culture. Having a “Good Mind” results in unbiased and accurate information being presented not only on this web but through his lectures/workshops.

The Six Nations, as we commonly know them, were known as Onkwehon:we, the “Real People” before the coming of the Peacemaker. The Peacemaker after getting the original five nations agreeing to the Great Peace said that they would also be known as the Haudenosaunee, people of the extended lodge or home.

One of the settlements of the Six Nations is called Six Nations on the Grand River Territory.

Now known as the Six Nations  there were only Five Nations prior to the Tuscarora that were invited under the leagues protection early in the 18th century. The Tuscarora have a voice in council but only through the Cayuga and Oneida.

The Haldimand tract along the Grand River should be referred to as the Haldimand Proclamation. This land was given to the Haudenosaunee compensating them for the loss of their ancesteral lands south of Lake Ontario after the American Revolution. It is neither a treaty nor a deed.

Haudenosaunee life was based on a matriarchal society which has been damaged over the past several centuries. The Clan Mothers are are vital to Haudenosaunee society. There is a visible resurgence of languages and a desire to recover the ”old ways” especially as related to a sincere connection and caring for our planet, “Our Mother Earth”.

The Haudenosaunee (Six Nations) have not broken any treaties with their British allies.

Today the Haudenosaunee have 9 basic clans, (Turtle, Bear, Snipe, Eel, Heron, Beaver, Hawk, Wolf, Deer). There are others for example the Turtle Clans has, Painted Turtle, Spotted Turtle.

The Haudenosaunee celebrate “Thanksgiving” every day. They have always maintained their role as caretakers of “Mother Earth” on behalf of their Creator.

Warriors had very important roles as “peace keepers”. They made sure that the “Great Peace” was adhered to under the direction of the Clan Mothers. . During councils, nation or league, they kept their  ”politicians” honest and could depose them, through directives provided by the Great Law. 

Wampum belts were exchanged very often. They were made by Haudenosaunee as well as European settlers. A belt was created with a specific message agreed upon. The belt was handed over after the words were spoken out load to the recipient who would be asked to repeat the words. This way both parties agreed to understand the “belts” message. It would be repeated at various times when needed to refer to the occassion for which it was  used.  Absolutely not currency, as we know it, however the purpose of them changed when the Europeans started to mass produce them. It took on a “currency like” value.

The Haudenosaunee Story of Creation is valid and is to be respected. 

Turtle Island is in fact more than just North America. At one time it was one land mass. “Sky Woman” landed on turtles back which expanded and eventually divided into other land masses as humanities needs were met by the Creator.

War of 1812 & Six Nations
www.warof1812rph.com