Continued Presence: Unearthing Ramapo Lenape History in Sloatsburg

Historian Dr. Chuck Stead will present a compelling talk exploring the groundbreaking archaeological and historical work of Ed Lenik and Nancy Gibbs, whose research has reshaped our understanding of Indigenous history in the Ramapo Highlands.

At the heart of the presentation is the archaeological dig and survey conducted in Sloatsburg—work that builds upon Lenik’s long-standing thesis that the local Munsee people, today known as the Ramapough Munsee Lenape Nation, maintained a continuous presence in the region dating back to the early Woodland Period (circa 1000–200 BC).

Building on a Powerful Thesis

Ed Lenik’s research challenges outdated narratives that have often minimized or fragmented Indigenous histories in the Northeast. His thesis—that the Munsee Tribe sustained a continuous presence in the Ramapo Highlands from the early Woodland Period onward—has gained increasing credibility through archaeological data, artifact analysis, and collaborative historical research.

Historian Nancy Gibbs has played a crucial role in contextualizing these findings, connecting archaeological evidence with documentary records and oral traditions. Together, their work strengthens our understanding of how past and present are linked through place, culture, and memory.

Why This Matters

The Ramapo Highlands are rich in natural beauty—but beneath the surface lies a much deeper human story. Uncovered evidence reinforces the understanding that Indigenous communities were not only present but thriving, adapting, and maintaining cultural continuity over millennia. This research carries profound importance and underscores the value of preserving archaeological sites that hold keys to our shared local heritage.

Hear Directly from the Researchers

Both Ed Lenik and Nancy Gibbs will be present at the event to share their perspectives on their work and to discuss what the artifacts reveal about local prehistory. Hear firsthand accounts of the excavation process, the discoveries, and the broader implications of their findings.

Dr. Chuck Stead’s presentation promises to be both informative and engaging—an invitation to look more closely at the land beneath our feet and the stories it continues to tell.

For anyone interested in archaeology, local history, or Indigenous heritage, “Continued Presence” offers a meaningful exploration of the past that continues to shape our present.

Unearthing Ramapo Lenape History