Before European contact, these tribes thrived along the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, their lives intertwined with the land and water. While their presence is often overlooked, their legacy remains an essential part of Maryland’s history.
The Algonquin
The majority of the Indigenous population in Maryland was Algonquin-speaking peoples. These tribes were primarily located on the Eastern Shore and the southern part of the Western Shore. Some of the most prominent Algonquin tribes included:
The Nanticoke: Located along the Nanticoke River, they were known for their skill in canoe building and navigation.
The Choptank: Residing along the Choptank River, they were renowned for their fishing and agricultural practices…