Salamanca, New York is the only city in the United States that is situated entirely on land owned by Native Americans. For 99 years, the townspeople have rented the land upon which their homes stand from the Seneca Indians for $1 a year. They have gotten used to their right to live and to do business on Indian property. But on February 19, 1991, the lease expired.

The Seneca Nation felt that it had been badly exploited by the old terms, and now insisted on huge increases—or else it would take back the land. Many of the townspeople were outraged at higher rents, especially as the town was suffering from a depressed economy. The film follows the five years of negotiation, as each side heatedly defended its position.

Archival footage, historical photographs, and interviews help tell the story of two communities caught in a web of historical injustice. Eventually, a landmark agreement was hammered out which enabled the town to survive. Among its terms is $60 million in reparation from the Federal government to the Senecas, the first Native American tribe to receive this acknowledgement of past wrongs.

"This is a powerful documentary, handled in a poignant and even-handed manner and guaranteed to stimulate lively discussion."
‒Science Books & Films

"This carefully balanced production insightfully focuses on the issues of treaties and Native American rights."
‒Booklist

Winner, American Indian Film & Video Competition, 1992
Honorable Mention, American Film & Video Festival, 1992