Poospatuck Reservation, Native American reservation in Mastic, Suffolk County, US
The Poospatuck Reservation is a Native American reservation in Brookhaven that includes both land and water areas along Poospatuck Creek. It is composed of multiple parcels located in the southeastern part of the township.
William 'Tangier' Smith established the reservation in the late 1600s after purchasing land from Unkechaug John Mayhew. The community has inhabited and maintained this territory ever since.
The Unkechaug people maintain their traditions on this land and speak an Algonquian language. They represent one of the two Native American communities in Suffolk County.
The reservation is located in southeastern Suffolk County and is accessible by various means of transportation. Visitors should check access policies in advance, as this is an inhabited tribal community with specific guidelines.
New York State recognizes it as the smallest tribal reservation in the state, yet it lacks official federal recognition from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. This dual status creates a unique legal situation for the community.
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