Honoring the Esselen People

Wildtender is situated on the unceded, ancestral lands of the Esselen People in present-day Big Sur, California. The Esselen People have inhabited and stewarded this land since time immemorial, stretching back at least 9,000 years. Despite more than 300 years of colonization, genocide, and oppression, the Esselen People and culture carry on to this day in exciting and vibrant ways.

The Esselen Tribe of Monterey County is the Tribal Group and non-profit organization founded with the goal of continuing cultural traditions and preserving the cultural heritage of the historic tribes that are located within Monterey County, along with protecting and preserving the recognized and unrecognized sacred lands and archeological sites.

With great respect and admiration for the Esselen (ancestors and descendants alike), Wildtender vows to operate as reverent and respectful guests on their sacred tribal lands, and to honor them in action and intention. We are grateful to be in ongoing relationship and dialogue with the Esselen Tribe of Monterey County, as we endeavor to be good allies to the Tribe, and indeed to all Indigenous Peoples worldwide.

To support the Esselen Tribe, and to learn more about their history and current activities, please visit their website.