Our beginnings

Kanien’keha, People of the Flint or Mohawks as we are commonly known as being one of the five original nations in the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. This small community predates the 1846 Border agreement of Canada and the United States of America, making it the only community that intercedes two countries. The Native North American Travelling College (NNATC) started out as only a van filled with resources in 1969.

The NNATC was a group of young and eager Akwesasronon, founded by Dr. Ernest Kaientaronkwen Benedict and Micheal Kanentakeron Mitchell. In those days they were known as The North American Indian Travelling College and would travel between Native communities, educating people on what it means to be Indigenous.  In 1974, NNATC established a building of its own. Little did they know, this idea would blossom into an important and integral part of all modern Haudenosaunee society. To honor our rich culture and storied past, we invite you to join us at our center.

EVENTS

Children’s Pow Wow

Embodying the spirit of dance and tradition, this yearly event is for children 13 and under. Our tiny dancers compete in age divisions for the title of stand-out smoke dancer and fancy dancer. The house is packed with craft vendors, dancing, music, food, and special performances.

Friendship Day

Grab a friend and take a walk through the vendor tables, or pull up a chair and chat with our featured local native artist. The day is filled with live contemporary and traditional music and local crafts.

Presentations

Travel troupe, CUltural Presentations & more!

We have a dedicated team of presenters and storytellers to host a cultural production at your work, school, or function. Our team of speakers, dancers, singers set out to educate a wide variety of groups. We also offer cultural sensitivity training at the request of your group or organization.

In addition, if you would like to know more or book a reservation by phone , we can be reached at 613-932-9452.

Tours

in person Museum tours

Check out this fantastic tour giving you an all-access pass to the histories and stories of the intricate details since time immemorial. From contemporary art, cultural relics, to historical presentations. There is much to explore at the Native North American Traveling College. Stop by during business hours or call ahead to book a museum tour guide today!

Author Erin Lee Releases her Third Book

The book consists of various educational components including a story and fun activity pack. While creating the story, Erin worked with a team from Akwesasne to write an entire Haudenosaunee (Mohawk) component to compliment the story and received support from the Native North American Travelling College.

CLICK HERE TO READ FULL STORY.

North Country kids expo

Interactive Performances:

2:00pm - 3:00pm - Dance with the Native North American Traveling College

• The Dance Travel Troupe from Akwesasne will showcase native indigenous songs and dances. Families are invited to join and learn their cultural duck, snake, and stomp dance!

FOR THE FULL LINEUP OF EVENTS CLICK HERE.

On the Canadian border, artistry connects travelers to Mohawk culture

Smoothing out misunderstandings and misconceptions is the focus of the third link in Akwesasne Travel’s slate of tours. At the Native North American Travelling College (NNATC), cultural educators take visitors into the history of Akwesasne, both before and after contact with European colonizers; teach guests how to pronounce Mohawk words; and provide a safe space to ask questions.

FOR THE FULL ARTICLE, CLICK HERE.

Interested in visiting us?

Here’s our address:

Native North American Traveling College

1 Ronathahonni Lane, 

Akwesasne, ON K6H5R7