Our community

Through hard work and determination it was our ancestors that shaped and made our First Nation the great place it is today. Here in Curve Lake, we have a special uniqueness that we are proud of. For instance, we are home to:

• The very first Anishnaabe Kwe O’gimaa (Native Woman Chief) in Canada – Elsie Knott (1954).
• World renowned artisans Norman Knott, Alice Williams and David Johnson.
• The famous Whetung’s Art Gallery (established in 1960s).

Although not as prominent, our culture, language and old ways of living are still with us. Over the last century, we’ve become a model community to surrounding First Nations.

The People

Our people are our most valuable resource. More specifically, the people of CLFN include members and non-members alike. Presently, our First Nation’s registered membership is approximately 2,177 (1,409 off reserve and 768 on reserve). The total non-member population is approximately 600. Therefore, the total member and non-member population is approximately 2,700. Our members reside in the 300 plus households located throughout the First Nation.

The Land

Curve Lake First Nation (CLFN) is located approximately 25 kms northeast of Peterborough, Ontario. The First Nation territory consists of a mainland peninsula and large island (Fox Island) on Buckhorn and Chemong Lake. Curve Lake First Nation also co-owns smaller islands located throughout the Trent Severn Waterway system. The total land base of the First Nation is approximately 900 hectares.

The First Nation Government

The current government structure encompasses a large full time staff complement of 100 employees, in addition to other part time and contract staff (approximately 18). Employees are organized in several departments:

• Finance and Administration
• Health and Family Services
• Education
• Economic Development
• Public Works
• Lands
• Cultural Centre
• Employment Resource Centre