Who Are the Samish?
The Samish Indian Nation has approximately 1,800 enrolled members, headquartered in Anacortes, Washington. Their traditional territory encompassed Samish Island, parts of the San Juan Islands, and mainland shorelines of present-day Skagit and Whatcom counties. They speak Lushootseed, a Central Salish language. The Samish signed the 1855 Point Elliott Treaty but were placed under the Swinomish Reservation rather than receiving their own land. Federal recognition was stripped in 1969 and not restored until 1996 after prolonged litigation—a 27-year gap that profoundly affected tribal development.
Lost and Found Recognition
The Samish case illustrates the bureaucratic injustices of federal Indian policy. Despite signing the 1855 treaty, they received no reservation. In 1969, the federal government dropped them from the list of recognized tribes—an administrative action made without Samish consent or even notice. For 27 years, the Samish fought for restoration. The 1996 recognition came through litigation and congressional action, but without the treaty rights other Puget Sound tribes exercised. The Samish had to fight additional court battles to secure fishing rights that other treaty tribes already possessed.
Island and Marine Territory
Samish territory centered on the waters and islands where Puget Sound meets the Strait of Georgia—some of the richest marine environments in the Pacific Northwest. Salmon, halibut, and shellfish supported a wealthy maritime culture. The reef net fishery, a sophisticated technology using stationary nets to intercept migrating salmon, was particularly associated with Samish and neighboring peoples. This technology required detailed knowledge of salmon behavior and current patterns. The islands provided protected waters, diverse resources, and strategic position for trade with Vancouver Island peoples.
Contemporary Samish
Modern Samish have rebuilt since 1996 recognition. Without a reservation, the tribe has purchased properties for administrative and cultural facilities in Anacortes. The tribe secured fishing rights after additional litigation, now participating in Puget Sound salmon co-management. Casino gaming (in partnership with other tribes) and other enterprises support tribal programs. The Samish Longhouse hosts cultural events and ceremonies. Language programs work to preserve Lushootseed. Environmental programs address habitat protection in their marine territory. How the Samish continue building after decades without recognition shapes this island people's determined recovery.
References
- Ruby, R. H., & Brown, J. A. (1986). A Guide to the Indian Tribes of the Pacific Northwest
- Harmon, A. (1998). Indians in the Making: Ethnic Relations and Indian Identities around Puget Sound
- Samish Indian Nation v. U.S. (Various). Recognition and Treaty Rights Cases