After centuries of a struggle to reclaim its land and source of livelihood, the Caldwell First Nation is celebrating the opening of a vibrant new Gas Bar and Convenience Store which is the first step in the plan to rebuild a nation from the ground up.

The Caldwell First Nation Gas Bar is one of the largest gas facilities in Southwestern Ontario with 16 full-service gas pumps serving regular, premium, clear and dyed diesel at affordable prices alongside a convenience store featuring snacks, drinks, T-shirts, hats, hoodies, traditional First Nation shirts, skirts and many other gift items.

Chief Mary Duckworth of the Zaaga’iganiniwag, Caldwell First Nation expressed pride at the opening of this facility.

“We have lived on the lands and waterways from the Detroit River along the north shore of Lake Erie to Long Point since time immemorial and we have gone from being landless and unrecognized to rebuilding our nation and creating the economic reconciliation that was long denied to us,” Duckworth said.

“Together we are healing and creating a bright future and will soon open a Marina, and begin construction of Passivhaus homes, a cultural centre, youth centre and retirement home on our land base near the shore of Lake Erie near Leamington.”

The Caldwell are the most Southwestern First Nation in Canada and are a distinct and federally-recognized Indian band. They call themselves Zaaga’iganiniwag which means “People of the Lake.”

The Caldwell First Nation Gas Bar is located at 1032 Mersea Road 1, Leamington and is now open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.