SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Prairie Land Potawatomi Nation has successfully reclaimed land in Illinois, a territory originally promised to the tribe’s leader 175 years ago but unjustly taken by the federal government two decades later.
In a historic move, a law signed by the Governor of Illinois last week facilitated the transfer of the Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area, which spans 1,500 acres in north-central Illinois.
“We are proud to once again call this land home,” stated the chairman of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation.
This significant action returns a piece of the Potawatomi territory that was ceded to Chief Shab-eh-nay in a treaty with the U.S. government in 1829. Although unchanged, when Chief Shab-eh-nay and his community temporarily left to visit family in Kansas, the government seized the land and sold it to settlers.
While the land is not identical to the original area taken from Chief Shab-eh-nay, as it has been altered by private ownership and development, this return symbolizes a critical step in addressing historical grievances.
“This moment reflects the power of collaboration and the shared desire to build a future rooted in justice and respect,” the chairman remarked. “Illinois has shown true courage and vision by leading the way in the Land Back movement, demonstrating that healing and reconciliation are possible.”
The area will remain accessible to the public as a park, with the state responsible for maintenance.
The chairman has consistently made efforts to engage with local and state governments regarding the park, addressing community concerns about potential changes. He emphasized the impracticality of establishing a casino in the area due to the existing number of gambling establishments in the state.
However, the chairman did indicate the possibility of developing a hotel, highlighting that the park, located 68 miles west of Chicago, boasts 150 campsites and attracts approximately 500,000 visitors annually, making lodging options a significant consideration.
