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Ashcroft Indian Band (AIB) is located in the southern interior of British Columbia, immediately west of the Village of Ashcroft and south of the Village of Cache Creek. It forms part of the Nlaka'pamux territory. Ashcroft Band Members have been settling in the Ashcroft traditional territory since time immemorial. Traditionally, they fished along the Thompson River and in later years took up ranching. In winter, they lived a bit further inland in pit houses built underground. The Ashcroft Indian Band is part if the Nlaka'pamux territory. The Nlaka'pamux used to be referred to as the "Couteau," or "Knife," Indians by the employees of the Hudson Bay Company but at present the "Thompson," or "Nlaka'pamux," Nation has superseded it. Our language belongs to the Salishan stock. The Nlaka'pamux territory is in the southern interior of BC mostly east of the Coast Range, but it extends far into the heart of that range. It is about a hundred miles in length by ninety miles breadth. Through this territory flows three rivers; Fraser River, Thompson River and the Nicola River. In the valleys of these rivers, or in close proximity thereto, are found the principal villages of the tribe, while the country on either side is our hunting grounds. Our neighbours are the Secwepemc to the north and east, the Stl'atl'imx to the northwest, and the Okanagan to the southeast. Members of the Ashcroft Indian Band have been settling in the Ashcroft traditional territory for thousands of years. traditionally, people fished and made their home along the Thompson River. In winter, the people lived in pithouses in close proximity to the Thompson River and Ashcroft Ranch. Ashcroft Indian Band is governed by an elected Chief and two councilors. It is a modern, forward-thinking governance body based on traditional culture and values. Throughout the generations elected Chiefs and Councilors have built an economy that respects and protects our culture, natural heritage and environment. The Ashcroft Indian Band is comprised of 4 reserves totaling 1,986.1 hectares of land. Today the band has a registered membership of 246 people. 85 members live on reserve and 161 live off reserve.
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