OUR MISSION
The Mission of the ETMC is to preserve and to protect our cultural heritage and ancestral sacred sites, namely of the Esselen, Rumsen, Chalone, Sureño, Chunchunes and Guatcharrone people, which includes but is not limited to the villages of Achasta, Chalon, Echilat, Ensen, Excelen, Esslenajan, Ixchenta, Jojopan, Kuchun, Pachepas, Sargenta-Ruc, Soccoronda, & Tucutnut, located within sacred pre-historic and historic tribal lands of Monterey County, California.
Rooted in Heritage, Committed to Stewardship
For thousands of years, the Esselen Tribe has safeguarded the lands and waters of Monterey County. Today, we honor that legacy through cultural preservation, ecological restoration, and community education.
Join us in protecting our sacred sites and building a sustainable future.
Help Us Reclaim and Restore Ancestral Lands
Right now, the Esselen Tribe is focused on re-acquiring the Tularcitos Creek Parcels of the Historic Rana Creek Ranch—a breathtaking and ecologically critical area full of cultural sites, majestic oak woodlands, and sensitive riparian zones.
Time is running out. Without your support, this sacred land risks being divided into luxury estates and vineyards. Together, we can restore these lands for ceremonies, ecological preservation, and education for the broader community.
Bringing the Past to Life for Future Generations
Our commitment to preserving the heritage of the Esselen Tribe goes beyond stewardship of the land—it’s about sharing our rich history and traditions with the community.
Through our growing education program, we collaborate with local schools, cultural institutions, and community groups to provide hands-on learning experiences that deepen understanding of the Esselen people’s past and present. From archaeological field schools to immersive cultural workshops, we aim to inspire a new generation to appreciate and protect Monterey County’s unique heritage.
