W8banaki

The Abenaki Nation’s name is derived from the words Waban and aki, meaning “land of the rising sun.” Located in Odanak and Wôlinak, the Abenaki people originated in the modern-day states of Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire. They’re known for their wickerwork, traditional dances, masks, totems, and the first Indigenous museum in Quebec.

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Communities

Odanak

The Abenaki community of Odanak, which means in the village, is located in Centre-du-Québec, on the east bank of the Saint-François River. It is home to the oldest Indigenous museum and the first CEGEP dedicated to Indigenous education in Quebec. Tourism is an economic pillar that contributes to the preservation of culture and tradition.

Wôlinak

This Abenaki community, established near the Bécancour River, still values hunting, fishing and other traditional activities in nature. Wôlinak means the river with the long detours. In the 17th century, the Abenaki travelled up and down the river to access their winter hunting grounds in the vast forest.