Nanticoke in United States

Introduction / History

Heaven and earth never agreed better to frame a place for man's habitation… notes a commemorative monument marking the 400th anniversary of the establishment of the first permanent English colony in North America. The quote, attributed to Captain John Smith, describes the home of the Nanticoke living along the river in Southeastern Delaware. The Nanticoke, or "Tidewater People," settled there where they reaped the bounty of the water. They also farmed a variety of vegetables and gathered nuts, berries and birds' eggs. The Nanticoke used the waters' shells for utensils, currency and decorations.

One account describes the Nanticoke leaving glass beads, shells and copper pieces as gifts of friendship for Smith. However, the established settling of Europeans in the Nanticoke's land brought challenges such as disease, conflict and displacement setting in motion multiple migrations.

Many Nanticoke moved eastward into Delaware settling near the Indian River. The Nanticoke worked hard and purchased land. They built a strong, though small, community. In1881, the Nanticoke Tribe was recognized by the state of Delaware as a legal entity. Today the Nanticoke maintain identity and community life primarily in Delaware and in New Jersey.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Nanticoke Tribe has survived by adapting to changes and befriending non-native people who live nearby. Today, the Nanticoke Indian Tribe and the Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Tribal Nation in New Jersey continue to engage in efforts to preserve their cultural heritage and educate the public, notably through museums and annual powwows. A dedicated team of tribe members and language researchers aim to revive the Nanticoke language for modern tribe members, young and old. The Nanticoke's tribal affairs office provides programs and social services including community dinners, educational opportunities and health care.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Traditionally the Nanticoke held animistic and spiritual beliefs focusing on proper relations with nature, the land and with their ancestors.

When the Europeans appeared to be no great threat, many Nanticoke ancestors embraced Christianity while still honoring the ancient ways. Christianity has been an important part of their connection to the Creator.

What Are Their Needs?

The Nanticoke need economic and social access. While the tribal association provides many services, stable funding, infrastructure and visibility are ongoing needs. They desire broader recognition and awareness. They want community cohesion, continuing connection to ancestral lands and waterways, strengthened intergenerational knowledge transfer and spiritual resilience in a changing world.

Prayer Points

Pray for social and economic flourishing: access to good education, mental and physical health care and meaningful employment.
Pray that the Christian faith among the Nanticoke will foster strong, resilient, compassionate community life.
Pray for Nanticoke Christians to join others in taking Christ's name to the nations.
Pray for a firm following of Christ that grants boldness in sharing the gospel among the Nanticoke and their non-native neighbors.

Text Source:   Joshua Project