Walpole Island was not included in any of the 18th and 19th century land surrenders and treaties. Walpole Island Reserve boundary has never been clearly established. The Walpole Island First Nation continues to assert and exercise Aboriginal title to its territory, unceded lands and waters. This event significantly advanced the First Nation self-government movement. Industries Nearly all of the households on Walpole Island are directly or indirectly involved with hunting, fishing and trapping activities.
Recreational tourism is the number one industry.
The second largest industry is agriculture. In 1971 Tahgahoning Enterprise was established with 200 acres. The third ranking and fastest growing sector is government services. The remainder are involved in manufacturing, trade industries, transportation, communications and other utility industries, and miscellaneous commercial activities. Local facilities include an economic development and industrial-training complex, and the newly constructed Thunderbird Mall.