When our ancestors traveled for subsistence activities, seasonal migrations or into a new territory, they would make a specific mark. It was drawn on the ground, on rocks or fallen trees. The main elements of the symbol include a square, with four moose (or elk) heads drawn in each corner. Then, in the center, a small pile of sand would be placed. These five elements (moose/elk heads, sand) represented the five main bands of the Odawak in the 1600s.

When we were deciding on a logo for our 2025 campaign, we wanted to symbolize our dedication to serving the people; and we wanted to honor the generations before us by bringing this symbol back into regular use. Marking our territory is an important tradition, whether that is literally and/or figuratively, when each one of us makes our own moves in the world!

We invite you to help us bring back this symbol by printing and posting with the hashtag #makeourmark on social media. We also encourage you to print for your own personal use. Let’s Make Our Mark together as Waganakising Odawak!

Sources:

Andrews, W. L. (2005, November). Our Land and Culture. pp. 14-15. Harbor Springs; Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. https://ltbbodawa-nsn.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Our-Land-and-Culture-for-web.pdf

Blackbird, A.J. (1887). History of the Ottawa & Chippewa Indians of Michigan. Ypsilanti Job Printing House: Ypsilanti, Michigan.