[3] Beginning in 1929, members embarked on an unsuccessful process of official recognition by the United States government, when they filed a petition in the Court of Claims, which they eventually dropped.
They also filed for intervenor status during United States v. Washington (a landmark fishing rights case) but were denied.
From 1975 until her death in 2006, Joan Ortez served as chairperson[5] following the resignation of Lewis Layton.
[6] The group formed the Steilacoom Tribal Museum Association, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2019.
[7] They operate a museum, which contains a snack bar and café,[6] and business office, both in Steilacoom.