The Montana First Nation (, ) is a First Nations band government in Alberta, Canada. It is a Treaty 6 government. Formerly the Montana Band of Indians,Montana First Nation website history page it is one of four First Nations in the area of Maskwacis.Montana First Nation homepage
The land where the Montana First Nation now sits near Wetaskiwin was originally set aside for the Bobtail Band of Indians. When the band was dispersed, the land was abandoned.
After it lay substantially vacant for a period of time, Little Bear, son of Cree chief Big Bear saw it as a place for his band, which had previously taken up residence in Montana (U.S.). Due to support from missionary John Chantler McDoubgall, the land was granted to the Montana Band of Indians.
In 1909 the reserve was reduced in size to just 10 squre miles. The band is currently contesting that reduction.
As of 2026, the band had a population of 1,158 registered people, of which the on-reserve population was 862 people.
Indian Reserves There are two reserves under the governance of the band:Indian and Northern Affairs Canada "Reserves/Settlements/Villages Detail Montana 139 Pigeon Lake 138A
References