(Front: left-right) MNO GBMC Chairperson Larry J.
Ferris, Susan Fraser, Robyn Fraser, MNO GBMC
Senator Ken Fraser, Makayla Beauchamp, (middle:
left-right) Owen Riddy, Grace Riddy, Brandon Howe,
Jacob Martin, Devin Latondress, Evan Logue,
(back: left-right) Carl Ferris and Jocelyn Howe.
Click here for larger picture.
On March 1 and 2, 2017, the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Georgian Bay Métis Council (GBMC) youth and chaperones took part in an adventure at Discovery Harbour in Penetanguishene. They had a unique opportunity to live as their ancestors did and see the daily challenges they faced in this area in the 1800s. Discovery Harbour showcases its roots that go back to 1793, when Sir John Graves Simcoe scouted Penetanguishene Bay as a strategic site for a naval base. The participants were able to see their family names in some of the historic displays and also walked the same ground as their ancestors.
During the 1800s there was a Métis community on Drummond Island and Métis from this island supported the British during the War of 1812. One of the most notable contributions of the Drummond Island Métis to the British war effort was their role in capturing Fort Mackinac on Michilimackinac Island. Following the War, negotiations led to Drummond Island being shifted to the American side in the border and as a result many Métis immigrated from the Island to Penetangushene to what was called the “Establishment.”
Once settled in the “Establishment,” the Métis carried on their traditions and culture; many continued to work at the “Establishment” and made a significant contribution to the Métis culture.
The MNO GBMC would like to thank Senator Fraser and his wife Susan for joining in and supporting the program. Ontario Power Generation also contributed funds for the event and the MNO was very thankful for their support.
Chair Ferris indicated how impressed he was with “how well the youth conducted themselves.” He also indicated that the young people “received compliments from all the Discovery Harbour staff [on how] polite, respectful and well behaved they were. They are great ambassadors of the MNO GBMC and the MNO is proud of them,” he concluded.
Posted: March 22, 2017