For decades, a common theme has been woven throughout the Turtle Mountain Reservation: community. During the 1950s, this theme was front and center. Nationally, this was an era of cold-war politics, middle-class values, and prosperity for many Americans. In stark contrast, life on most Indian reservations appeared more like a third-world country. Dismal education, high levels of economic poverty, and a lack of employment plagued reservations. TImes were tough and community was as important as ever.

Regardless of the social and economic challenges, the Turtle Mountain people existed by trapping, planting, potato picking, rationing, and bundling resources. A community banded together for the common good. Life was enriched by honoring customs and traditions such as bush-dancing, horse racing, and socializing. In addition to the Native cultural traditions, many of the Metis/Michif people held steadfast to the teachings of Catholicism. The annual St. Ann’s Novena was highly attended, an event that brought the community together while welcoming friends and family who made the pilgrimage annually.

During the 1950s, the tribal community banded together and constructed a round-house, an octagon-shaped log structure plastered with mud-stucco near the town of Dunseith. The roundhouse served as a community center where public meetings, social gatherings, and other events took place. It was an iconic facility until the 1980s when it sadly went up in flames. Long after the round-house and St. Ann’s Novena ceased to exist, their stories live on, reminding residents of the spirit of community that has been a part of Turtle Mountain Reservation for generations.