Before the train depot helped settle Brainerd the Ojibwe called the area home. And before the Ojibwe it was the Dakota people that lived here. Today during a lecture at Central Lakes College during Brainerd’s History Week, audience members got a history of the Native American people who have called Brainerd home.

Three speakers talked about the proud history and contributions the Ojibwe have made in Brainerd’s history, from Chief Hole-In-The-Day to hall of fame baseball pitcher Charles Albert Bender. And they say history is the foundation of respect.

Audience members say after today’s speakers they have a better understanding of the cultures that make up the spirit of the Brainerd Lakes Area.

Last year during Brainerd History Week, the city took steps to mend the gap between the city and Obijwe Nation during a Ceremony of Reconciliation for the hanging of two White Earth tribesmen without trial after the disappearance of a Crow Wing Villager.

By — Lakeland PBS

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