Official Website of the Chippewa Cree Tribe | Rocky Boy’s Reservation, Montana
The Rocky Boy’s Reservation, established on September 7, 1916, is located in Hill County in north-central Montana, nestled within the scenic Bear Paw Mountains. Covering about 128,000 acres, it is the smallest reservation in the state but home to a vibrant community of approximately 2,700 residents, with another 5,000 members living beyond its borders. Cree remains the predominant language, though only a few fluent speakers of Chippewa remain. The Tribe was also among the first in the nation to embrace self-governance, setting a foundation for strong leadership and sovereignty.
The community unites two closely related peoples: the Cree (Nēhiyaw), who migrated south from Canada, and the Chippewa (Ojibwe), who moved westward from North Dakota. Though once distinct, these groups came together in the late 19th century and were officially recognized as the Chippewa Cree Indians of the Rocky Boy’s Reservation.
Tansi – Welcome to the Home of the Chippewa Cree Tribe
Awasisak, okawīmāw, nōhkomak, mōsomak — kinānāskomitināwāw.
(Children, mothers, grandmothers, grandfathers — we thank you.)
We are proud to call North Central Montana our home. As a sovereign Tribal Government, we are committed to serving our people with respect, honesty, and transparency.
This website was created to help keep our community informed about what’s happening within the Tribe. Whether you live on the reservation or off, we want you to feel connected and up to date.
We’ve also included helpful links for our tribal employees to access the tools and information they need.
Good communication brings us together. It helps us grow stronger as a tribe, and we believe it’s one of the most important ways we can serve you. Thank you for visiting — we’re glad you’re here.
About the Chippewa Cree
Our Mission
The mission of the Chippewa Cree Tribe is to protect, strengthen, and empower our people through cultural preservation, self-governance, economic development, and community well-being.
We are guided by the values of respect, unity, honesty, and care for one another. Through responsible leadership and a commitment to future generations, we strive to build a strong, resilient, and sovereign Nation.
Our history – A Brief Timeline
Pre-1800s – The Cree migrate from Canada; the Chippewa (Ojibwe) move westward from the Great Lakes and Northern Plains region.
Late 1800s – Cree and Chippewa peoples begin to settle together in Montana, forming a united community.
1902–1916 – Chiefs such as Little Bear (Cree) and Rocky Boy (Chippewa) advocate for land and recognition for their people.
September 7, 1916 – The Rocky Boy’s Reservation is officially established, named after Chief Rocky Boy (Asiniiwin).
1975 – The Tribe begins to expand self-determination efforts under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act.
Early 1990s – The Chippewa Cree Tribe becomes one of the first in the nation to enter the Tribal Self-Governance Program.
Today – The Tribe continues to grow in areas of education, housing, cultural preservation, and economic development, while staying rooted in tradition.
Meet Our Council (Coming Soon)
We are proud to be led by dedicated elected officials who represent the interests and voices of our people. This section will introduce our current Tribal Council, including their roles, responsibilities, and how they serve the Nation.
