Tucked away in the misty hills and dense forests of northern New Jersey lies a story few have heard—a tale of resilience, mystery, and deep-rooted connection to the land. The Ramapough Lenape Nation, an Indigenous people whose lineage stretches back centuries, has weathered storms of erasure, marginalization, and environmental threat. Their presence is as enduring as the granite ridges of the Ramapo Mountains they call home, yet their story remains largely hidden from public view. What is it about this community that has allowed them to persist against all odds? How have they maintained their traditions amid the shadows of history and the bustle of modern life? Their journey is a testament to survival, identity, and the unbreakable bond between people and nature.
A People Shrouded in Mystery and Misunderstanding
The Ramapough Lenape Nation has often been misunderstood, their roots obscured by centuries of changing borders, shifting populations, and racial prejudice. Many locals used to refer to them by derogatory names, not realizing the depth of their Indigenous heritage. Some even doubted their existence, calling them “mythical” or “mixed,” rather than recognizing their distinct Lenape ancestry. This skepticism has been a double-edged sword: while it sometimes spared them the worst of direct attacks, it also made them invisible in the eyes of law and policy. Despite this, the Ramapough have steadfastly maintained their identity, holding fast to oral histories, family lines, and traditions that tie them to the land. Their story is not one of disappearance, but of quiet endurance against a tide of misunderstanding.
Deep Roots in the Ramapo Mountains
The Ramapo Mountains, with their rugged terrain and hidden valleys, have…
Gov. Josh Shapiro shakes hands with workers as he arrives at Friday’s event. Mark Moran | For Times Leader
