“The approach to the post both from up and down the river via (illegible) navigaied with difficulty only by the primitive but indispensable canoe.”
“Early Monday morning, July 28th, the Commissioners summoned the Indians, 85 in all, and hoped to conclude the work in order to take off on Tuesday. The band chose three leaders to (illegible) negotiations, Xavier Patrick, John Bird and David Sutherland. The Interpreters were Rev. Father Martel and William Oman. These Indians possessed more knowledge of the terms and conditions of Treaty No. 9 than many members of other bands which have been admitted twenty-five years ago, and consequently discussions were shorter and explanations fewer.”
“When the Commissioners attempted to elucidate a certain point they were met by the interruption politely made, “We know perfectly all about this Treaty.””
“Adhesion was readily signed by the contracting parties, the commissioners first and leaders second, followed by the witnesses Rev.L. P. Martel, O.M.I. J. Thos. O’Gorman, M. D. John Harris, Hudson’s Bay Company, and R. T. Wheeler, Clerk.”
“Elections resulted in Xavier Patrick as Chief and David Sutherland Councillor. Dr. O’Gorman presented the Union Jack to the Chief, appropriately explaining its significance, and the Commissioners pinned upon the elected ones their medals and counselled them in divers (sic) matters.”
“A feast of ample proportions was tendered them but before partaking these humble teepee inhabitants with a Christian faith approached the missionary requesting that they gather in God’s name and thank Him for all His goodness and seek His Blessing.”
Treaty Commissioners Report on the making of the Adhesions to Treaty No. 9, 1930, INAC file 1/1-11-12
See here for more information about Winisk First Nation
See here for additional information about Winisk First Nation
See here for more additional information about Winisk First Nation