Lipan Apache Day:

by Mescalero Apache Tribe | July 30, 2026 12:25 pm

We are happy to announce that in a recent Tribal Council meeting a resolution was presented and approved by unanimous vote of the Mescalero Tribal Council which established “Lipan Apache Day”. Lipan Apache Day will be celebrated on the last Friday in July of each year, where we will commemorate and celebrate the Lipan Apache’s arrival and integration into the Mescalero Apache Tribe. This is a significant occasion that honors the rich history of the Lipan Apache people and this day serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of our ancestors who faced numerous challenges throughout history.

Here are some Key Historical Points:

• Peace Treaties: Several treaties were signed between the Lipan Apache and the United States Government, including:
  Council Springs Treaty (1846): A commitment to peace between the Lipan Apaches and the U.S. Government.
• Treaty with the Comanche, Caddo, Lipan Apache, Quapaw, Tawakon, and Waco (1850): Another effort to establish peaceful relations.
  Treaty with the Comanche, Lipan Apache, and Mescalero Apache(1851): Further solidifying alliances.
  Treaty With the Apaches (1852): An agreement that underscored the desire for coexistence.

Resettlement: In July 1879, a group of 20 Lipans arrived in Mescalero, New Mexico, marking a pivotal moment in their journey. Later, in June 1903, 37 Lipan Apache, known as the “Last Lipans,” were allowed to return from captivity in Mexico, symbolizing hope and resilience.

Significance of the Day:
Lipan Apache Day is not just a celebration of our past but also a time to reflect on the strength of our community and the ongoing efforts to preserve our heritage.

It serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, culture, and identity among the Mescalero, Lipan, and Chiricahua Apache peoples: Three Bands, One Tribe.

As we honor the Lipan Apache on this day, let us continue to strive for the recognition and respect that our tribes deserve, ensuring that our history and traditions are passed down to future generations.

This year, in observance of Lipan Apache Day, tribal offices, departments and programs will be closed on Friday, July 31, 2026. All public safety departments, essential services and enterprises are exempt from the closure and will continue providing services to our community. We will resume normal operations at 8:00 am on Monday, August 3, 2026. The tribe will not be hosting any events this year and will plan for events next year.

Source URL: https://mescaleroapachetribe.com/26069/lipan-apache-day/

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