CHAPTER VIII.
THE WINNIPEG TREATY, NUMBER FIVE.
THIS treaty, covers an area of approximately about 100,000
square miles. The region is inhabited by Chippewas and
Swampy Crees. The necessity for it had become urgent. The
lake is a large and valuable sheet of water, being some three
hundred miles long. The Red River flows into it and the
Nelson River flows from it into Hudson's Bay. Steam navigation had been successfully
established by the Hudson's Bay
Company on Lake Winnipeg. A tramway of five miles in
length was being built by them to avoid the Grand Rapids and
connect that navigation with steamers on the River Saskatchewan. On the west side
of the lake, a settlement of Icelandic
immigrants had been founded, and some other localities were
admirably adapted for settlement. Moreover, until the construction of the Pacific
Railway west of the city of Winnipeg,
the lake and Saskatchewan River are destined to become the
principal thoroughfare of communication between Manitoba
and the fertile prairies in the west. A band of Indians residing at Norway House,
who had supported themselves by
serving the Hudson's Bay Company as boatmen on the route
from Lake Winnipeg to the Hudson Bay, by way of the Nelson River, but whose occupation
was gone, owing to supplies
being brought in by way of the Red River, desired to migrate
to the western shore of Lake Winnipeg, and support themselves
there by farming.
For these and other reasons, the Minister of the Interior
reported " that it was essential that the Indian title to all the
144 The Treaties of Canada with the Indians.
territory in the vicinity of the lake should be extinguished so
that settlers and traders might have undisturbed access to its
waters, shores, islands, inlets and tributary streams." The mouth
of the Saskatchewan River especially seemed to be of importance, as presenting an
eligible site for a future town. For
these reasons the Privy Council of Canada, in the year 1875,
appointed Lieut.-Gov. Morris, and the Hon. James McKay, to
treat with these Indians. It may be here stated that this
remarkable man, the son of an Orkneyman by an Indian
mother, has recently died at a comparatively early age. Originally in the service
of the Hudson's Bay Company, he became
a trader on his own account. Thoroughly understanding the
Indian character, he possessed large influence over the Indian
tribes, which he always used for the benefit and the advantage .
of the Government.
The Hudson's Bay Company, to resume this narrative, kindly
placed their propeller steamer, the Colville, at the service of
the Commissioners, and the Board in London, in view of the
public service rendered by its use by the Commissioners, eventually declined to make
any charge for its employment. A
full report of the voyage of the Commissioners, and of the results of their mission,
will be found in the despatch of the
Lieutenant-Governor, which will be found at the end of this
chapter. Suflice it to say, that the Commissioners proceeded
first to Berens River, on the east side of the lake, and made a
treaty with the Indians of that side of the lake, thence they
sailed to the head of Lake Winnipeg, descended the Nelson
River to Norway House, where no steamer had ever before
been, and concluded a treaty with the Indians there.
They also promised the Indians to give those of them who
chose to remove, a reserve on the west side of Lake Winnipeg,
at Fisher's River, about forty miles from the Icelandic settlement.
A considerable number of families have since removed there,
and have formed a very promising settlement.
From Nelson River the Commissioners proceeded to the
The Winnipeg Treaty. 145
mouth of the Great Saskatchewan River, and met the Indians
who live there. Their houses were built at the foot of the
Grand Rapids, and in the immediate vicinity of the Hudson's
Bay, Tramway, some seven miles from the mouth of the river.
The river is here deep to the very shore, so that the steamer
ran long aside the bank, and was moored by ropes attached to
the Chief's house. The Commissioners met the Indians and
informed them of the desire of the Government to control the
land where they had settled, and to give them a reserve, instead, on the opposite
side of the river. They said, they would
surrender the locality in question, and go to the south side of the
river, if a small sum was given them, to aid them in removing
their houses or building others. To this the Commissioners
willingly acceded, and promised that the next year a sum of
five hundred dollars would be paid them for that purpose.
The treaty was then signed, the Commissioners having extended
the boundaries of the treaty limits, so as to include the Swampy
Cree Indians at the Pas or Wahpahpuha, a settlement on the
Saskatchewan River, and recommended that Commissioners
should be sent in the ensuing summer to complete the work.
The Commissioners then returned to Winnipeg, after a voyage, on and around the lake,
of about one thousand miles.
The terms of the treaty were identical with those of Treaties
Numbers Three and Four, except that a smaller quantity of
land was granted to each family, being one hundred and sixty,
or in some cases one hundred acres to each family of five, while
under Treaties Numbers Three and Four the quantity of land
allowed was six hundred and forty acres to each such family.
The gratuity paid each Indian in recognition of the treaty was
also five dollars per head, instead of twelve dollars the circumstances under which
the treaty was made being different.
The area covered by these treaties was approximately about
100,000 square miles and has been described as lying north of
the territory covered by Treaties Numbers Two and Three, extending west to Cumberland
House (on the Saskatchewan
146 The Treaties of Canada with the Indians.
River) and including the country east and west of Lake Winnipeg, and of Nelson River-
as far north as Split Lake.
In 1876, Lieut.-Gov. Morris, in accordance with his suggestions to that effect, was
requested by the Minister of the
Interior, to take steps for completing the treaty, and. entrusted
the duty to the Hon. Thomas Howard, and J. Lestock Reid,
Esq., Domninion Land Surveyor He gave them formal instructions, and directed them
to meet the Indians together at
Dog Head Point, on the lake, to treat with the Island Indians
there and thence to proceed to Berens River to meet the Indians
of the rapids of that river who had not been able to be present
the previous year, and thereafter directed Mr. Howard to proceed to the mouth of the
Saskatchewan and pay the Indians the
five hundred dollars for removal of the houses, and thence to go
up the Saskatchewan to the Pas and deal with the Indians there,
while Mr. Reid was to proceed from Berens River to Norway
House, and arrange with the Indians for the removal of such
of them as desired it, to Fisher's River, on Lake Winnipeg.
These gentlemen accordingly in July, 1876, proceeded in
York boats (large sail boats) to their respective destinations,
and were very successful in accomplishing the work confided
to them.
I now append the official despatch of Lieut.-Gov. Morris,
dated 11th October, 1875, giving an account of the making of
the treaty and of the journey, and his despatch of the 17th
November, 1876, relating to the completion of the treaty, together with extracts from
the reports of Messrs. Howard and
Reid.
FORT GARRY, October 11th, 1875.
To THE HONORABLE THE MINISTER OF THE INTERIOR.
Sir—I have the honor to inform you, that under authority of the Commission of the
Privy Council to that effect, I proceeded to Lake Winnipeg
for the purpose of making a treaty with the Saulteaux and Swampy Cree
Indians, in company with my associate, the Hon. James McKay, leaving Fort
Garry for Chief Prince's Landing on the Red River, on the 17th September
last, in order to embark on the Hudson's Bay Company's new propeller, the
The Winnipeg Treaty. 147
Colville, which Chief Commissioner Graham had kindly placed at our disposal on advantageous
terms. We selected this mode of conveyance, as
travelling and conveyance of provisions in York boats would, at the advanced period
of the season, have occupied at least eight weeks, if at all
practicable.
The steamer left the landing at five o'clock on the 18th September, but
owing to the prevalence of a gale of northerly wind was compelled to be
anchored at the three channels of the Red River, inside of the bar which
obstructs the entrance of the lake. The wind continued during the 18th
and 19th, but on the afternoon of the latter day, Captain Hackland, a sailor
of much practical experience on the Northern Seas, decided to risk going
out, as the water on the bar was running down so fast that he feared that
the steamer would be unable to cross over the bar. I may remark that
the wind causes the waters of the lake to ebb and flow into the river with
great rapidity, and that the bar is so serious an obstruction to an important
navigation, that it ought to be examined with a view to ascertain the cost
and practicability of its removal. Leaving our anchorage, We crossed the
bar at three in the afternoon with difficulty, and proceeded on our voyage ;
anchored opposite the mouth of the Berens River on Monday, the 20th, at
nine a.m., to await the arrival of a pilot, as no steamer had ever before
entered the river. Under the pilotage of a Chief and a Councillor, we
reached Berens River Post, the Indians greeting us with volleys of firearms,
and at once summoned the Indians to meet us in the Wesleyan Mission
School House, which the Rev. Mr. Young kindly placed at our disposal.
We met the Indians at four o'clock, and explained the object of our visit.
The question of reserves was one of some difficulty, but eventually this
was arranged, and the Indians agreed to accept our offer, and the indenture
of treaty was signed by the Chiefs and head men about eleven p.m. The
payment of the present of five dollars per head, provided by the treaty, was
immediately commenced by Mr. McKay and the Hon. Thomas Howard,
who accompanied me as Secretary and Pay Master, and was continued
until one a.m., when the payment was concluded.
The steamer left next day, the 21st, for Norway House, but the captain
was obliged to anchor at George's Island in the evening, owing to the stormy
weather. The Colville remained at anchor all the next day, the 22nd, but
left at midnight for Nelson River. We sighted the Mossy and Montreal
points, at the mouth of that river, about nine a.m. on the 23rd, and arrived
at the old or abandoned Norway House at eleven o'clock, under the guidance of Roderick
Ross, Esquire, of the Hudson's Bay Company's Service, at
Norway House, who had been engaged for some days in examining the
channel, in anticipation of our visit.
The Nelson River expands into Play Green Lake, a large stream of water
studded with islands, presenting a remarkable resemblance to the Thousand Islands
of the St. Lawrence River. The distance from the mouth of
the river to Norway House is twenty miles. We arrived at Norway House
148 The Treaties of Canada with the Indians.
at three o'clock and were welcomed there by the Indians, who fired a
salute.
On the 24th we met the Indians in a large store-house of the Hudson's Bay
Company, and asked them to present their Chiefs and head men. We
found that there were two distinct bands of Indians, the Christian Indians
of Norway House, and the Wood or Pagan Indians of Cross Lake. Each
elected their Chiefs by popular vote in a most business-like manner, and
the Chiefs, after consulting the bands, selected the head men. We then
accepted the Chiefs, and I made an explanation of the object of our visit in
English, and the Hon. James McKay in the Indian dialect. We severed the
questions of terms and reserves, postponing the latter till we had disposed
of the former. The Indians gratefully accepted of the offered terms, and
we adjourned the conference to enable them to consult as to reserves. On
re-assembling, the Christian Chief stated that as they could no longer count
on employment in boating for the Hudson's Bay Company, owing to the
introduction of steam navigation, he and a portion of his band wished to
migrate to Lake Winnipeg, where they could obtain a livelihood by farming and fishing.
We explained why we could not grant them a reserve for
that purpose at the Grassy Narrows as they wished, owing to the proposed
Icelandic settlement there, but offered to allot them a reserve at Fisher
River, about forty miles north of the Narrows, and this they accepted. It
is supposed that some eighty or ninety families will remove there in spring,
and it was arranged that those who remain, instead of receiving a reserve,
should retain their present houses and gardens. The Chief of the Pagan
band, who has, however, recently been baptized, stated that the Wood
Indians wished to remain at Cross Lake, and we agreed that a reserve
should be allotted them there. The treaty was then signed and the medals
and uniforms presented. The Chiefs, on behalf of their people, thanked
Her Majesty and her officers for their kindness to the Indian people, which
I suitably acknowledged, and the payment of the presents was commenced
by Messrs. McKay and Howard, and completed on the 15th.
We left that day at half-past three amidst cheering by the Indians and a
salute of fire-arms, and came to anchor in Play Green Lake, at Kettle
Island, at half-past five.
The steamer left Kettle Island next moming at six o'clock for the Grand
Rapids of the Saskatchewan, which we reached at four o'clock.
The original post of the Hudson's Bay Company, at the mouth of the
river, has been abandoned, and a new one established on their reserve, some
six miles higher up the river, at the head of the portage, which the river
steamer descends to. The Colville, at our request ran up to the Chief's
house, situated on the shore of a deep bay, and was moored and gangways
laid out to the shore. We found an Indian village on the north side, and
also the Chief's house, which was built on the only spot where good and inexpensive
wharfage can be had, and ascertained afterwards that the Indians
claimed the whole north shore for a reserve.
The Winnipeg Treaty. 149
On the 27th we met the Indians near the Chief's house in the open air, at
a spot where a large fire had been lighted by them, as the weather was cold.
We took a similar course as at Norway House in severing the question of
terms of the treaty and reserves, and with like satisfactory results. After a
lengthy discussion the Indians agreed to accept the terms, and we then
entered upon the difficult question of the reserves. They complained of the
Hudson's Bay Campany's reserve, and wished to have the land covered by
it, but we explained whatever had been promised the Company would be
given just as promises made to them would be kept. They said the Company's reserve
should be at the abandoned post at the mouth of the river,
and not at the end of the portage. We informed them that we would inquire
as to this. They then claimed a reserve on both sides of the river of large
extent, and extending up to the head of the Grand Rapids, but this we
declined to accede to. Eventually, as the locality they had hitherto occupied is so
important a point, controlling as it does the means of communication between the mouth
of the river, and the head of the rapids, and
where a " train-way " will no doubt ere long require to be constructed, presenting
also deep-water navigation and excellent wharfage, and evidently
being moreover the site where a town will spring up, we offered them
reserve on the south side of the river. They objected, that they had their
houses and gardens on the north side of the river, but said that as the
Queen's Government were treating them so kindly, that they would go to
south side of the river, if a small sum was given them to assist in removing
their houses, or building others, and this as will be seen by the terms of the
treaty, we agreed to do, believing it to be alike in the interests of the Government
to have the control of so important a point as the mouth of the
great internal river of the Saskatchewan, and yet only just to the Indians,
who were making what was to them so large a concession to the wishes of
the Commissioners. On our agreeing to the proposal, the treaty was cheerfully signed
by the Chief and head men, and the payment of the present was
made to them, together with a distribution of some provisions. I enclose a
tracing of the mouth of the river, copied from a sketch thereof kindly made
for me by Mr. Ross, which will enable you to understand the actual
position of the locality in question, and the better appreciate our reasons
for our action in the matter.
The steamer left the Grand Rapids in the afternoon of the 27th, and the
captain took his course for the mouth of the Red. River, but anchored, as
the night became very dark, between George's Island and Swampy Island.
On the 28th, resuming our course at half-past five a.m., we sighted Berens
River Mission House at eight o'clock, and passed into the channel between
Black Bear Island and Dog Head or Wapang Point, at 12.30 ; then observing a number
of Indians on the shore making signals to us by firing guns,
we requested the captain to approach the shore. The water being very deep
the steamer went close inshore and anchored —the Indians coming off to us
in their canoes. We found them to be headed by Thickfoot, a principal
150 The Treaties of Canada with the Indians.
Indian of the band inhabiting the islands, and some of those and the Jack
Head band of the West Shore, and explained to them the object of our visit.
They told us they had heard of it, and had been waiting to see us. Thickfoot
said the Island Indians at Big Island, Black Island, Wapang and the other
islands in the vicinity had no chief ; that they numbered one hundred and
twenty-eight, and those at Jack-Fish Head sixty. Thickfoot said he had
cattle and would like to have a place assigned to his people on the main
shore, where they could live by farming and fishing. We suggested Fisher
River to them, which they approved of. Eventually we decided on paying
these Indians—took Thickfoot's adhesion to the treaty, of which I enclose a
copy, and authorized him to notify the Indians to meet at the Dog Head
Point next summer, at a time to be intimated to them, and to request them
in the mean time to select a Chief and Councillors. Thickfoot expressed
gratitude for the kindness of the Government, and his belief that Indians
of the various Islands and of Jack Head Point would cheerfully accept the
Queen's benevolence and settle on a reserve. After paying this party, and
distributing a small quantity of provisions among them, we resumed our
voyage, and, owing to the character of the navigation, again came to anchor
in George's Channel at seven o'clock, p.m. On the 29th, we left our anchorage at five
o'clock a.m., and entered the mouth of the Red River at
twelve o'clock, crossing the bar without difficulty, as the weather was calm.
We arrived at the Stone Fort at three o'clock in the afternoon, but had to
remain there till next day, awaiting the arrival of conveyances from Winnipeg. Mr.
McKay and I left the Stone Fort on the 30th at seven a.m. leaving our baggage and
a portion of the provisions which had not been used to
be forwarded by the steamer Swallow, and reached Fort Garry at ten o'clock,
thus terminating a journey of over one thousand miles, and having satisfactorily closed
a treaty with the Saulteaux and Swampy Crees, which will
prove of much importance in view of the probable rapid settlement of the
west coast of Lake Winnipeg. The journey, moreover, is of interest, as
having been the first occasion on which a steam vessel entered the waters of
Berens River and of the Nelson River, the waters of which river fall into
the Hudson's Bay, and as having demonstrated the practicability of direct
steam navigation through a distance of three hundred and sixty miles from
the city of Winnipeg to Norway House. I may mention here that the prevalence of timber
suitable for fuel and building purposes, of lime and sandstone, of much good soil,
and natural hay lands on the west shore of the
lake, together with the great abundance of white fish, sturgeon and other
fish in the lake, will ensure, ere long, a large settlement.
The east coast is much inferior to the west coast, as far as I could learn,
but appeared to be thickly wooded, and it is understood that indications of
minerals have been found in several places.
I now beg to call your attention to the boundaries of the treaty, which,
you will observe, vary somewhat from those suggested in your memorandum
to the Privy Council. The Commissioners adopted as the southern bound
The Winnipeg Treaty. 151ary of the treaty limits, the northern boundary of Treaties Numbers
Two and Three. They included in the limits all the territory to which' the
Indians ceding, claimed hunting and other rights, but they fixed the western
boundary as defined in the treaty, for the following reasons :
1st. The extension of the boundary carries the treaty to the western limit
of the lands claimed by the Saulteaux aud Swampy Cree Tribes of Indians,
and creates an eastern base for the treaties to be made with the Plain Crees
next year.
2nd. The Swampy Crees at the Pas, on the Saskatchewan, would otherwise have had to
be included in the western treaties.
3rd. That the extension of the boundaries will add some six hundred to
the number of Indians in the suggested limits, of whom three hundred at
Wahpahhuha or the Pas on the Saskatchewan would have had to be treated
with owing to the navigation of the Saskatchewan, in any event.
4th. The inclusion of the Norway House Indians in the treaty, and the
surrender of their rights, involved a larger area of territory.
5th. That a number of the Norway House Indians came from Moose Lake
and the Cumberland region, and possessed rights there which have been included in
the boundaries.
6th. Unless the boundaries had been properly defined, in conformity with
known geographical points, a portion of the country lying between the
territories formerly ceded and those comprised in Treaty Number Five,
would have been left with the Indian title unextinguished.
For these reasons, the Commissioners defined the boundaries as they are
laid down in the treaty, and it will remain with the Government to send a
Commissioner to the Pas to obtain the adhesion of the Indians there to the
treaty next summer, or not as they shall decide, though the Commissioners
strongly urge that step to be taken as a necessity.
I forward the original of the treaty to you by the Hon. Mr. Christie, and
in order to the better understanding of the treaty area, I enclose a very
valuable map copied from one made for me at my request on board of the
Colville, by Roderick Ross, Esq., who accompanied me from Norway House
to the Stone Fort, and to whom I was indebted for much valuable assistance
and co-operation, as we were in fact to the Company's oflicers generally.
This map is prepared from actual observation, and locates many places not
indicated on any existing map, and covering as it does an area of over
100,000 square miles, which, exclusive of the great waters, has been included
in the treaty, possesses much value.
I enclcse herewith duplicates of the pay sheets, a statement of the cash
expenditure, shewing the balance on hand of the credit which was given me
for the purposes of the treaty, and statements of the distribution of the
provisions and of the clothing, and medals, as given to the chiefs and head
men. These statements will shew that every arrangement was made to
secure the utmost economy in effecting the treaty, and yet to give satisfaction to
the Indians concerned.
152 The Treaties of Canada with the Indians.
I mention here.that the Indians were uniformly informed that no back
payments of the present would be made to those who did not attend the
meetings with the Commissioners, but that next year those not present
would receive payment with the others, if they presented themselves.
I have to express my sense of the services rendered to the Government by
my associate the Hon. James McKay, and the Hon. Thomas Howard, who
acted as Secretary and Pay Master to the Commissioners as well as of the
many kind services we received from Captain Hackland, and the other officers of the
Colville, from the Wesleyan Missionaries, and from the officers of
the Hudson's Bay Company.
I take this opportunity of suggesting that the supervision of Treaty Number Five,
and the carrying out of the treaty obligations with the Indians
of the St. Peter's Band, and of those of Fort Alexander and the River
Roseau and Broken Head, which fall into Lake Winnipeg, should be
entrusted to alocal agent, stationed at the Stone Fort or in the vicinity
of St. Peter's, and who would thence supervise the whole District.
In conclusion, I have only to express the hope that the action of the
Commissioners, which in every respect was governed by a desire to promote
the public interest, will receive the approval of the Privy Council, and be
regarded by them as the satisfactory discharge of an onerous and responsible
duty.
I have the honor to be, Sir,
Your obedient servant,
GOVERNMENT HOUSE,
FORT GARRY, 17th November, 1876.
TO THE HONORABLE THE MINISTER OF THE INTERIOR.
Sir,—I recommended in my despatch of the 7th June, that measures
should be adopted to secure the adhesion of the Indians, who had not been
met with when Treaty Number Five was concluded, and was requested by
you to entrust the duty to Mr. Graham, of the Indian Department here,
or to the Hon. Thomas Howard, Mr. Graham was unable to leave the
office. I, therefore entrusted the matter to Mr. Howard and J. Lestock
Reid, D.L.S. I gave these gentleman written instructions, a copy of which
will be found appended to the report of Mr. Howard, in which I directed
them to meet the Island Indians and those of Berens River together, and
then to separate, Mr. Reid proceeding to Norway House and Mr. Howard
to the Grand Rapids of the Saskatchewan and the Pas, this course being
necessary to enable the work to be accomplished during the season. I have
pleasure in informing you that these gentlemen discharged their mission
most successfully and satisfactorily, as will be seen from the following
reports, which I enclose, viz :—
The Winnipeg Treaty. 153
A. Joint report of Messrs. Howard and Reid as to the Island Indians of
Lake Winnipeg and those of Berens River.
B. Report of Mr. Howard as to the band at the Grand Rapids, and as to
his negotiations with the Indians at the Pas.
C. Report of Mr. Reid with regard to the Norway House Indians.
D. Report of Mr. Howard, submitting the accounts of the expenditure
incurred in carrying out my instructions.
1. It will appear from these reports that the Commissioners obtained the
assent of the scattered bands among the islands and shores of Lake Winnipeg, and had
them united in a band with one Chief and his Councillors.
2. That the Indians of the Grand Rapids of the Berens River accepted
the treaty, being received as part of the band of Jacob Berens, and that
the latter band wish their reserves to be allotted them and some hay lands
assigned.
3. That the Norway House Indians contemplate removal to Fisher's
River, on Lake Winnineg.
4. That the Indians of Grand Rapids have removed, as they agreed to do
last year, from the point where they had settled on the Saskatchewan, and
which had been set apart as the site of a town.
5. That the Indians of the Pas, Cumberland, and Moose Lake gave
their adhesion to the treaty, and, subject to the approval of the Privy
Council, have agreed upon the localities for their reserves.
6. That the bands at the Grand Rapids, the Pas, and Cumberland are in a
sufficiently advanced position to be allowed the grant for their schools.
1 forward herewith the balance sheet of Mr. Howard for the receipts and
disbursements connected with the completion of the treaty and the payments, as also
the various vouchers in support thereof. I placed the charge
of the financial arrangements in the hands of Mr. Howard, on whom also
fell the longest period of service in the work entrusted to the Commissioners.
I also forward by parcel post, registered, the original of the assents to the
treaty of the various bands.
To prevent complications and misunderstandings, it would be desirable
that many of the reserves should be surveyed without delay, and, from
Mr. Reid's connection with the treaty, and his fitness for the work, I think
that he would be a suitable person to be employed in the duty.
I would remark in conclusion, that I requested Mr. Provencher to obtain
the assent to the treaty of the band at the mouth of the Black River, and that
he informs me that he obtained their adhesion and has so reported to you.
The having obtained the assent of the whole of the Indians within the region
treated for so far, is a most satisfactory feature of the year's operations.
154 The Treaties of Canada with the Indians.
A.
WINNIPEG, October 10th, 1876.
To the Hon. ALEXANDER Morris,
Lieutenant-Governor, Fort Garry.
Sir,—Under instructions received from you, dated 14th July last, we were
directed to proceed to the Dog Head Point and Berens River, on Lake Winnipeg, and
there obtain the adhesion of certain Indians to the treaty that was
made and concluded at Norway House last year, and we have now the honor
to report . . . . .
With a fair wind and fine weather we reached the Narrows on Monday
afternoon, the 24th, at half-past four. Mr. Howard called at the Hudson's Bay Company's
post to see about the provisions stored there, where he
found Thickfoot and the Jack-Fish Head Indians encamped, about twenty-
five families in all, and learned from them that they were desirous to meet
and speak to us where they were, and not across the Narrows at the Dog
Head ; but as the place of meeting was distinctly fixed, Mr. Howard
informed them that they would have to move their camps.
Mr. Reid having, in the meantime, gone to the Dog Head Point, was
received with a salute from the Indians there encamped, viz.: the Blood
Vein River, Big Island and Sandy Bar bands, and, almost simultaneously
with Mr. Howard's arrival there, the Indians belonging to Thickfoot and the
Jack Fish Head arrived also.
We hardly had time to make our camp before being waited upon by a
representative from all the bands except Thickfoot's, and they desired to
know when we would be prepared to have a conference; and, having told
them that the following day, the 25th, was the day appointed, and that we
would meet them at eleven o'clock in the morning, we gave them some provisions and
they withdrew. Thickfoot subsequently called upon us and
stated that he was prepared at any time to meet us and sign the treaty,
that he had learned that it was our intention to make only one Chief for all
the Indians gathered there ; that he had felt when the paper was placed in
his hands last year by the Governor, that he was making him the Chief ;
that he had notified all the Indians that were there as he had agreed, and
that they had threatened him with violence for saying he was to be Chief,
and that he was afraid now to join them in any way, and that he and his
band wished to be spoken to by themselves. Upon hearing this, we informed
him that he need not be afraid of violence, that the paper the Governor
gave him merely stated that he was a principal Indian, and we would certainly recognize
him as such, and if the Indians desired him to be their Chief
it would be a great pleasure to us.
The following morning the Indians sent word by a representative from
each hand, except Thickfoot's, that they desired another day to meet in
council before having a conference; but, feeling they had sufficient time
The Winnipeg Treaty. 155
already, yet not wishing to hurry them too much, we extended the hour of
meeting to four o 'clock on the same day, which satisfied them, and when
they promised to be ready.
About three o 'clock we were informed that the Indians had gathered, so
we at once proceeded to meet them. The place we had chosen for the conference was
on a granite plateau, and at one end our crews had erected a
covering with boughs; a more suitable spot for the meeting could not be
found.
After inquiring if they had all gathered, and, being assurred that they
had, we began to explain the object of our mission, but immediately saw
that the bands were determined to be considered distinct and wished to be
treated with separately, when we informed them that only one Chief would
be allowed, and that before we could proceed any further we would require
them all to meet together in council and there select one Chief and three
Councillors, and be prepared to present them to us on the following day.
This evidently gave great satisfaction to the Island Band, of which Ka-tuk-
e-pin-ois was head man, but they all withdrew ; before doing so, agreeing to
be ready the next day at noon to meet us.
Before the hour appointed for the meeting the next day, another delegation came over
and informed us that the Indians were not yet prepared,
that they could not come to any decision as to who should be Chief, and
again asked to have the hour of meeting extended to three o'clock, which
we did upon the understanding that if they were not then prepared we
would return and report the facts to you.
Shortly after, we noticed Thickfoot and his Indians sitting near our tents,
and evidently taking no part in the selection of a Chief, so we called him
over and found him still disinclined to join the other Indians. He stated Â
that they would not have him as Chief, and that he would therefore remain
away. We then explained that he could he head man of his band by
being elected a Councillor to whoever would be appointed Chief, and at last
prevailing upon him to go with his Indians to the Council tent, we requested
the Rev. Mr. Cochrane to proceed to the Indian encampment and state to
them that from each band other than the one from which the chief was
chosen, a Councillor would have to be taken. By this means we saw our
way to satisfy all the bands, and Mr. Cochrane having notified the Indians
accordingly, we felt confident the choice of a chief would soon be made ; but
in this we were disappointed, as a messenger shortly after arrived and said
no choice could be made, as Ka-tuk-e-pin-ais would do nothing unless he
was chosen Chief. 0n hearing this Mr. Cochrane decided to visit the
Indians in Council, and, having done so, proposed to them that they should
elect a Chief by ballot, and having got them all to agree to this proposition,
they proceeded to the election. Several ballots had to be taken, and at last
resulted in favor of the chief Indian of the Blood Vein River band, Sa-ha-
oha-way-ass, and the Councillors elected were the head men from the Big
Island, Doghead. and Jack Fish Head bands.
156 The Treaties of Canada with the Indians.
At three o'clock p.m. , we were notified that the Indians had again gathered, when
we proceeded to the place of meeting, and were presented
to the Chief and two of his Councillors. Ka-tuk-e-pin-ais, the third Councillor, coming
forward, said his band did not want him to act as Councillor;
that he had seen the Governor the other day, and had been told by him that
he would be the Chief of the Island Indians. Whereupon we informed him
that no such promise had been made by you, and that we could only recognize the choice
of the majority. He then desired to withdraw from the
negotiations, and wait until he saw you, before signing the treaty ; but as
we had learned that out of the twenty-two families that were in his
band, all, with one or two exceptions, had received the annuity since 1870,
with the St. Peter's Band, we made them sit by themselves, and then
explained that by receiving the annuity as a large number of them had done,
they had really agreed to the treaty, and that we were there only to deal
with those of the band that had at no time received money from the Queen.
Ka-tuk-e-pin-ais then said that there were very few of his Indians that had
not received money from the Queen, but that he never had ; that he was
quite prepared to sign the treaty now, only some of his people did not want
him to do so, unless we agreed to give them the Big Island for a reserve.
This we at once refused, and at the same time told them that unless he and
all his band agreed to the terms we offeredthem without further delay, they
might return to their homes. Hearing this, they all withdrew, but soon
returned, when Ka-tuk-e-pin-ais said one or two of his people did not want
him to sign any treaty, but most of them did, and that he was going to do
so. He then took his seat along with the Chiefs and other Councillors, and
we proceeded to explain the terms of the treaty. When we came to the
clause referring to the reserves, each band was anxious that the places where
they are in the habit of living should be granted them as reserves, and the
locations of the same mentioned in the treaty ; but as our instructions were
positive on this point, we refused, but assured them that the names of the
places they asked for, we would certainly forward with our report to you,
and we stated that with the exception of the location asked for by the
Sandy Bar Indians, we felt sure the Government would grant their request,
and give them their reserves where they desired. The following were the
localities mentioned :—
DOG HEAD BAND.—The point opposite the Dog Head.
BLOOD VEIN RIVER BAND. —At mouth of Blood Vein River.
BIG ISLAND BAND.—At mouth of Badthroat River.
JACK-FISH HEAD BAND.—The north side of Jack Head Point, at the
Lobstick, and the
SANDY BAR BAND.—White Mud River, west side of Lake Winnipeg.
It must be remembered that four bands out of the above named, viz. :—
Big Island, Jack-Fish Head, Dog Head and Blood Vein River, are distinct
bands, those at Sandy Bar really belonging to the St. Peter's Band of Indians.
and that they have always lived at the diflirentmointe upon the lake from
The Winnipeg Treaty. 157
which they take their names, and they therefore look upon these points as
their homes. We would, therefore, beg to recommend that the request of
of all, with the exception of the Sandy Bar Indians, be granted, although in
doing so we are aware of the desire of the Government that Indians
should not be encouraged to break up into small bands, yet we feel
sure in this instance it would be impossible to get them all upon any one
reserve.
The adhesion we had signed on Wednesday evening, July 26th, and we
then arranged to begin the payments of annuities the following morning at
nine o'clock, which was done, and the payments completed by four o'clock
on the same day. We then distributed the implements, ammunition, twine,
and balance of provisions.
As already stated, the Indians at Sandy Bar, were formerly paid with
the St. Peter's band. They are now included in the limits of Treaty Five,
and desire to receive their annuity with the Island band.
Having distributed the presents, we immediately moved our camp to an
island about a quarter of a mile from the Point, and there remained until
Saturday morning, the 29th, when, having a favourable wind, we set sail
and arrived off the mouth of Berens River, and camped on Lobstick
Island the following morning, Sunday, at half-past nine o'clock.
We remained there until Tuesday, and then moved our camp to the
Methodist Mission. The next day we went over in one of our boats to the
Hudson's Bay Company's post, where we met Mr. Flett, the officer in charge
and received from him the provisions that had been previously forwarded
and which he had in store, and then returned to our camp.
Mr. Flett informed us that the Indians from the Narrows of Berens
River, he expected would arrive that evening, and on Thursday, visited us
to say that they had arrived and were then holding a council. The same
afternoon the Chief and Councillors called upon us and desired to know
when we would be prepared to meet them, and though the 5th was the day
appointed, we thought it advisable, as all the Indians were then gathered
there, and were anxious to return to their homes, to appoint the following
day, the 4th August.
The next morning the Indians came over from where they were encamped
near the Hudson's Bay post, in York boats ; and when we learned that they
were all in the school-house We proceeded there, and met, in addition to the
Berens River band, about thirty Indians from the Grand Rapids of Berens
River. We explained the object of our mission, and found the Indians from
the Rapids most anxious to accept the Queen's bounty and benevolence, some
of them had already accepted the annunity with the Lac Seule Indians we
found, so we immediately told them that it was only to those that had not
previously received money or presents from the Queen, that the first part of
our mission extended, and with whom it was necessary we should first speak.
The head man, Num-ak-ow-ah-nuk-wape, then said that he was fully prepared,
on behalf of all his Indians, to accept the same terms as given to the Berens
158 The Treaties of Canada with the Indians.
River band, only he wanted his reserve where he then lived, at the'Grand
Rapids ; upon which we told him that before we could speak further, we must
be assured by the band that he was their head man, and this the band at once
did. \Ve then thought it advisable to recommend that they should make the
Chief of the Berens River band their Chief, and make their head man a Councillor to
him, and although our proposition was not at once received satisfactorily, we ultimately
prevailed upon them to accept it, and the Chief was
at once elected. By this means we saved the expenses necessarily incurred
in maintaining one Chief and two Councillors. We then stated that we
were prepared to grant them their reserve where they asked for it ; and
having explained the treaty to them, clause by clause, and mentioned in the
adhesion where the reserve should be, the adhesion was duly signed by the
Chief and Councillors. The payment of the annuity was then gone on with
and finished that afternoon at four o'clock.
We then distributed the implements, ammunition, twine and provisions.
When we had finished, the Chief and Councillors came forward, and thanked
us for all that had been done for them; they said they were well pleased
with what they had received, and desired us to inform you of the fact, which
we accordingly promised. They then returned in the same boats they had
come over in : before leaving the bank, giving three cheers for the Queen
and three for the Governor.
We are very much pleased to inform you that the best possible feeling
appears to exist between the Indians in this region. They all appeared
anxious to farm and settle down, and we heard that a number of houses
had been built at Poplar River, and considerable clearing done there since
the treaty was made with them last year ; the implements and tools we
brought them were therefore most acceptable. As these bands live at a considerable
distance from each other, we would recommend that an extra
supply of tools he allowed them. We also feel satisfied that the animals
promised by the treaty might be furnished, as we certainly consider them
in a position to take care of the same.
As you directed, we informed them that their application for hay lands
had been forwarded to the Government, and this gave them great satisfaction. The following
morning, Saturday, August 5th, Mr. Reid left for
Norway House, and during the afternoon of the same day, Mr. Howard
sailed for the Stone Fort on the Red River. Â
Having obtained the adhesion of the Indians at the Dog Head, and at
Berens River, our duties as Joint Commissioners under your instructions
ceased....
We were fortunate enough to secure the services of the Rev. Henry
Cochrane, who kindly acted as interpreter. Being in the Province on a
visit from his mission at the Pas, and desirous of returning, 'Mr. Howard
gave him a passage in his boat. and be rendered us the most valuable assistance throughout.
Having thus referred to the different matters connected with our mission
The Winnipeg Treaty.
159
while acting together, and assuring you that our aim and desire was to
fulfill it to your entire satisfaction, which we trust we have done,
B.
Winnipeg, October 10th, 1876.
To THE HONORABLE ALEXANDER MORRIS,
Lieutenant-Governor, Fort Garry.
SIR,— I have the honor to inform you that in compliance with your
instructions, a copy of which I hereunto annex, I proceeded, accompanied by
Mr. Reid, to the Dog Head and Berens River on Lake Winnipeg, and there
successfully secured the adhesion of the Island and Grand Rapids of Berens
River Bands of Indians to Treaty Number Five, and, having 'paid the
annuities to the Berens River Indians, returned to the Stone Fort. As
mentioned in the joint report submitted to you by Mr. Reid and myself, I
had the greatest difficulty in procuring a boat to take me on my mission,
and only through the kindness of Mr. Flett. of the Hudson's Bay Company,
at the Stone Fort, was I able to obtain even the loan of one as far as Berens
River, from where I had to return it. . . .
I left the Stone Fort for the Grand Rapids, on the morning of the 17th of
August, and after a very fast, though rough and dangerous passage, reached
the mouth of the Saskatchewan river, early on the morning of the 26th. I
found, on entering the river, that the Indians were encamped near its
mouth, on the south bank, where I landed, and arranged to meet them at
noon that day. As the provisions were stored at the Hudson's Bay Company's
post, about a mile and a half up the river, I decided to camp at the foot of
the road leading across the four-mile Portage, and having done so, and in
the meantime sent the provisions to the Indian camp, I returned there at
the time agreed upon.
The band having assembled, I stated to them the object of my mission—
that I had been directed to pay them the annuity and deliver some of the
tools and implements granted them by the treaty, and also to distribute
amongst those that formerly had houses and gardens on the north bank of
the river, and had moved to where they were then living, as stipulated in
the treaty, the sum of five hundred dollars.
To my surprise, the Chief at once expressed his astonishment at my saying
that the treaty had been made last year, and said he had only a talk then
160 The Treaties of Canada with the Indians.
with the Governor preliminary to making the treaty this year, and that they
were only then prepared to be treated with. I explained to the band how
I had been present myself when it was made, and that I would have it read
to them. I accordingly requested Mr. Cochrane to do so, explaining it
thoroughly; yet, it was only after a great deal of talking on their part,
during which they made most unreasonable demands, and many explanations
on my part, that the Indians were satisfied that a treaty had been made,
when they requested me to go on with the payments; at the same time a
number of them stated that they had been misled by one of the counsellors,
Joseph Atkinson by name. I then paid the annuity, distributed the
provisions, tools, implements, etc., and gave the Chief a copy of the treaty,
and, arranging to meet them again on Monday, the 28th, I returned to my
camp at midnight.
On Monday, I met them as agreed, and at once began and made inquiries
as to who had houses and gardens on the north bank and had moved their
houses to the south bank, and I found that all those that had formerly lived
on the north bank had removed from there. I noticed that great feeling
existed amongst them all as to the division of the five hundred dollars
granted. All the band congregated round me and the large majority
desired that the amount should be divided equally between them all, and
claimed that every one belonging to the band was entitled to participate in
the division; so I thought it best to leave it to themselves to decide how the
amount should be distributed, and they only succeeded in doing so after a
great deal of talking, and, I regret to say, quarrelling; but they at last
arranged it, and I was requested by the Chief and Councillors to divide it
amongst the whole band in such proportions as I thought right, so I
proceeded at once to what turned out to be a long and troublesome undertaking; but
having as I considered made a fair and equitable distribution
of the amount, I paid the same, had the document witnessed by the Chief
and Councillors, and only got back to my camp again at midnight. As I
before said, all the Indians had removed to the south bank of the river, but
had made no preparations to build, and were merely living in tents. Close
to the encampment, at the mouth of the river, the Church Missionary
Society have put up a large building to answer the purposes of a church and
school-house. Care must be taken and strict watch kept over this band.
Living as they do on the bank of a navigable river, where people are
constantly passing, they can give great trouble and annoyance, and, I am
sorry to say, are inclined to do so. Several complaints were made to me
while there, and I spoke to the Indians regarding them. They promised me
to abide faithfully by the terms of the treaty henceforth and not give any
further annoyance.
While occupied paying the Indians there, my crew were engaged in taking
my boat and supplies across the Portage. They left the camp early on
Monday morning, and with the assistance kindly rendered them by Mr.
Matheson, of the Hudson's Bay Company, succeeded in reaching the north end
The Winnipeg Treaty. 161
of the Portage on Tuesday evening. That same afternoon I walked over
the four-mile Portage and found there a number of buildings belonging to
the Hudson's Bay Company. To this point the Saskatchewan River steamer
Northcote descends and receives the supplies for the different posts belonging
to the Company to the West and North-West.
On Wednesday morning, the 30th, I left for the Pas. From the Grand
Rapids to the Narrows, before entering Cedar Lake, a distance of eighteen
or twenty miles, a continuous rapid extends, and it is only by tracking and
poling simultaneously that you are at all able to ascend the river. The
first day I made only nine miles on my way and camped at the Demi
Charge, and it was late in the evening on the second day when I reached
Cedar Lake. This lake is about thirty-five miles in length and is very
shallow and dangerous in stormy weather. I was fortunate enough to have
very calm weather, and, therefore, crossed it without any delay and entered
the Saskatchewan again at the Che-ma-wa-win or "Seining place," early
on Saturday morning, September 2nd. Noticing a large encampment of
Indians there, I landed and found they were part of the Moose Lake band.
They desired that I should treat with them where they were, and not bring
them to the Pas, but upon my telling them that I could only treat with
them at the appointed place of meeting, they readily assented to follow me
up, and having given them some provisions to take them there, and secured
the services of one of them to act as guide, I again started on my journey.
I was then three days and two nights ascending the river, and on Tuesday morning,
the 5th September, the day appointed for me to meet the
Indians, I arrived at the Pas or Devon Mission, on my way up having been
passed by the Indians from the Che-ma-wa-win.
On entering the river after leaving Cedar Lake the whole aspect of the
country changes, and from there to the Pas, and, I understand, for fully
one hundred miles above it, nothing but marsh can be seen ; so much so
that it was difficult along the bank of the river to find a spot dry enough to
camp upon, and I was, consequently, obliged to eat and sleep in my boat.
The dreariness of this voyage can hardly be realized, and it was with feelings
of delight that I landed at the Mission at the Pas where the Rev. Mr.
Cochrane received me.
Mr. Cochrane had accompanied me from the Stone Fort and had been in
my boat up to the night before I arrived, when, meeting some Indians that
were on the look-out for us, he returned with them in their canoe and
reached his home shortly before I arrived.
The Pas or Devon Mission is situated on the south bank of the Saskatchewan, distant,
I should say, one hundred and forty miles from Grand
Rapids. The Church Missionary Society have a very nice church, schoolhouse and parsonage
there; and the Hudson's Bay Company one of their
posts. There are also a large number of houses belonging to the Indians of
the place; and on the other bank the firm of Kew, Stobart & Co., have
erected a store for trading purposes. There are also several dwelling-houses
162 The Treaties of Canada with the Indians.
on the north bank. Altogether, the appearance of the place, on my arrival,
was most prepossessing. The banks were covered with Indians with their
canoes. and immediately the boat rounded the point below the Mission and
came in view a salute was fired, the like of which, I was subsequently told,
had never been heard in the " Ratty Country."
Having landed at the Mission, Mr. Cochrane informed me that he had, as
I requested, summoned the Indians to meet in the school-house at three
o'clock that afternoon, and when the hour arrived I proceeded there and
found upwards of five hundred Indians gathered. I stated the object of my
mission to them, and was at once assured of their desire to accept of, and
their gratitude for, the Queen's bounty and benevolence.
I found that the Pas and Cumberland bands of Indians had acknowledged
Chiefs, but that the Moose Lake band had none, owing to a division amongst
them. It appeared that the Indians from the Che-ma-wa-win desired to be
a distinct band and have their reserves where I had seen them at the
entrance of the river from Cedar Lake; but noticing, on my way up, the
unfitness of the locality for a reserve, and having learned that at Moose Lake,
where part of the band desired to live, a most suitable locality could be had,
I had decided before meeting them upon the course I should take, which
was, not to encourage the division in the band, and allow only one Chief ;
and this I did, and succeeded, without much trouble, in getting the band to
unite. I then requested all the Indians to meet in council and select their
Chief and head men, and be prepared the following morning to present them
to me, when I would be ready to speak to them.
The next morning at eleven o'clock I met them and found they had done
as I requested, and having been presented to the Chiefs and Councillors I
proceeded to explain the terms of the treaty that I desired to receive their
adhesion to. The Chiefs immediately stated that they wanted to make a
treaty of their own, and it was only after great difficulty that I could make
them understand that in reality it was not a new treaty they were about to
make.
They had heard of the terms granted the Indians at Carlton, and this
acted most prejudicially at one time against the successful carrying out of
my mission ; but I at last made them understand the difference between
their position and the Plain Indians, by pointing out that the land they
would surrender would be useless to the Queen, while what the Plain Indians
gave up would be of value to her for homes for her white children. They
then agreed to accept the terms offered if I would agree to give them reserves
where they desired; and to their demands I patiently listened, and having
at last come to a satisfactory understanding I adjourned the meeting to the
following day.
Before proceeding further, I would draw your attention to the localities
I granted for reserves, subject to the. approval of the Government, and beg
to inform you that I made every inquiry as to the extent of farming land
in each locality mentioned.
The Winnipeg Treaty. 163
At the Narrows, at Moose Lake, there is considerable good land, and a
suitable place for a reserve can be had for the Moose Lake band.
For the Pas and Cumberland Indians I had to mention several localities.
At the Pas all the land obtainable is now cultivated, and consists of a
vegetable garden and one field attached to the Mission, and a few patches of
potatoes here and there. A short distance from the river the marsh begins,
and extends to the south for miles ; and the same thing occurs to the north.
In fact, on both banks of the river at this point, and from the Che-ma-wa-
win up to it, one hundred and fifty acres of land fit for cultivation cannot
be found ; and about Cumberland the country in every respect is similar.
The following day, Thursday the 7th, I met the Indians at three p.m.,
and had the adhesion read to them and signed. I then presented the medals
and clothing to the Chiefs and Councillors, with which they were greatly
pleased, and having congratulated them upon wearing the Queen's uniform,
and having in return been heartily thanked by them for what had been
done, I proceeded to pay them, and continued to do so up to seven o'clock,
when the funds at my disposal being exhausted, I directed them to meet me
again the following morning at nine o'clock, which they did, and I completed
the payments the same evening at five o'clock. I then distributed the balance
of provisions and the ammunition and twine. The implements and tools I
had been unable to bring from Grand Rapids, my boat being very heavily
laden ; but Mr. Belanger, of the Hudson's Bay Company, kindly promised to
have them brought up free of charge in a boat that was going to the Grand
Rapids in a few days ; I therefore gave the Chief of the Pas band an order
for the chest of tools and the implements.
The following day, Saturday, having again seen all the Chiefs and Councillors and
received their thanks, and after many expressions of gratitude
from the Indians gathered, I left the Pas at half-past two o'clock p.m., and
with rowing and floating alternately during the afternoon and night, reached
the Che-ma-wa-win on Sunday evening ; crossed Cedar Lake on Monday,
and landed at the head of Grand Rapids on Tuesday morning. I then ran
the rapids and hoisted the sail at the mouth of the river at two p.m., having
called upon Mr. Matheson and seen the Chief of the Indians there on my
way down. I then made all haste to return here, but, owing to contrary
winds, only succeeded in reaching the Stone Fort on the 20th September, yet,
having made a very quick trip, unprecedented in fact, and in carrying out
the mission entrusted to me, travelled in an open boat, thirteen hundred miles.
I would now inform you that three out of the four bands of Indians I met
on the Saskatchewan, viz., the Grand Rapids, Pas and Cumberland, are in
a position to receive at once from the Government the grant allowed for the
maintenance of schools of instruction ; at the Grand Rapids a large schoolhouse is
by this time entirely completed ; and at the Pas and Cumberland,
schools, under the charge of the Church Missionary Society, have been in
existence some years. The Indians belonging to the bands I have named
desired that the assistance promised should be given as soon as possible.
164 The Treaties of Canada with the Indians.
I would now mention the very valuable services rendered the Government
by the Rev. Mr. Cochrane, who acted as interpreter at the Dog Head,
Berens River; Grand Rapids and the Pas, and who was at all times ready
to give his advice and assistance ; as well as by Mr. A. M. Muckle, who
accompanied me and assisted in making the payments ; and by Mr. Nursey,
who took charge of the boat with supplies for the Pas. To Mr. Matheson,
of the Hudson's Bay Company, Grand Rapids, and Mr. Belanger, of Cumberland House,
I am deeply indebted, and take this opportunity of tendering
these gentlemen my sincere thanks for the assistance rendered me and the
many kindnesses I received from them. I enclose herewith the pay-sheet
of the different bands I paid, a statement of the cash expenditure, and
statements shewing quantities of provisions, implements, etc., received and
how distributed, with a statement of clothing, medals, etc., given to the
Chiefs and Councillors, and a report I received from Mr. Bedson.
And, trusting that the manner in which I have carried out the mission
entrusted to my care, may meet with your approval,
I have the honor to be, Sir,
Your obedient servant,
THOMAS HOWARD,
Commissioner.
FORT GARRY, July 14th, 1876.
TO THE HON. THOS. HOWARD AND J. LESTOCK REID, ESQ.
DEAR SIRS, —Under authority from the Minister of the Interior, I have to
request you to proceed to Lake Winnipeg for the purpose of—on behalf of
the Privy Council of Canada— securing the adhesion to Treaty Number
Five of the Indians who have not yet been dealt with, and to make the
necessary payments to the others.
1st. You will, if possible, together proceed to or meet at the following
places, being there on the days named, viz.: Dog-Head Point, 25th July,
and Berens River on the 5th August.
2nd. Mr. Howard will then proceed to the mouth of the Saskatchewan,
so as to reach there on the 25th of August, and then arrive at the Pas on the
5th of September.
3rd. Mr. Reid will proceed from Berens River to Norway House, to
arrive there on or before the 25th of August.
4th. You or either of you will secure the adhesion of the Island Indians
to the treaty after the form annexed, and will request them to select a
Chief and three Councillors, and will be authorized to promise them a reserve
of one hundred and sixty acres to each family of five, or that proportion for
larger or smaller families, to be selected for them by the person chosen for
that end by the Privy Council with their approval.
The Winnipeg Treaty. 165
5th. You or either of you will obtain the adhesion of the Indians of the
Grand Rapids of Berens River to the treaty according to the form annexed.
You will ask them to select a Chief and three Councillors. A similar
provision will be made as to a reserve, but if necessary you can fix the
locality at the Sandy Narrows above the rapids on the Berens River,
reserving free navigation and access to the shores to all Her Majesty's
subjects.
6th. Mr. Reid will pay the Norway House and Cross Lake Indians, and
will ascertain the intentions of the Norway House Indians as to the time of
their removal to Fisher River, of which I am unadvised.
7th. Mr. Howard will pay the Indians at the mouth of the Saskatchewan,
and if the Indians have removed their houses, as agreed by the treaty, will
pay them five hundred dollars, but if not and some have removed, will pay
such their proportionate share of the five hundred dollars.
8th. You will distribute the implements, tools, etc., sent among the
Indians, as also the ammunition and twine. Cattle cannot be given till the
Indians are sufficiently settled on the reserves to make it seem that they will
be cared for. You will report any cases where you find this to be the case,
for future action.
9th. You will inform the Berens River Indians that their application for
a hay reserve has been forwarded to the Privy Council by me, and that they
will receive a reply hereafter.
10th. Mr. Howard will secure the adhesion of the Indians at the Pas to
the treaty providing that reserves of one hundred and sixty acres to each
family of five will be granted at places selected for them by an officer of the
Privy Council, with their approval ; but it will probably be necessary to
give them a reserve at the Pas where they reside, reserving carefully free
navigation and access to the shores. As the extent of land there
s very narrow, it may be desirable to indicate localities where
farming reserves will be granted, subject to the approval of the Privy
Council.
11th. The Moose Lake Indians are a distinct band, and will probably
desire the recognition of two separate Chiefs and the allotment of separate
reserves to them.
12th. The Cumberland House Indians are another band, but very much
scattered ; the question of a reserve will have to be considered, and, in connection
with it, as in other cases, respect for actual, bona fide, substantial
improvements, and for the rights of settlers.
13th. In all cases the places indicated for reserves to be subject to Her
Majesty's approval in Council, and free navigation and access to the shores
to be reserved.
14th. In the case of new adhesions to the treaty, which are in fact new
treaties, only five dollars is to be paid, but persons belonging to bands
treated with last year are to receive last year's payment, if then absent, if
necessary.
166 The Treaties of Canada with the Indians.
15th. You will each take with you a suitable person, to be approved of
by me, to assist you in the payment.
I have the honor to be,
Your obedient servant,
ALEXANDER MORRIS,
Lieut.-Governor.
C.
WINNIPEG, October 14th. 1876.
To THE HON. ALEXANDER Morris,
Lieut.-Governor.
Sir,—Referring to your letter of instructions under date of the 14th of
July, relative to the payment of the Norway House and Cross Lake bands
of Indians, I have the honor to submit the following report :—
Having, in co-operation with the Hon. Thomas Howard, paid the Indians
of Berens River and successfully secured the adhesion of the Island and
Upper Berens River bands of Indians to Treaty Number Five, on the
morning of Saturday, the 5th of August, I left for Norway House, which
place, owing to stormy weather and strong head winds, I did not succeed in
reaching until the morning of the 12th. On the way I was met by Indians
proceeding to inspect their reserve at Fisher's River, who brought a letter
from the Chiefs of Norway House and Cross Lake, stating that the Indians
were all assembled, and requesting to be paid at the earliest possible date.
On reaching this place, Norway House, after having camp pitched at a
short distance from the fort, I dispatched messengers to the several camps
and villages, notifying the Indians of my arrival and desiring the Chiefs to
meet me on the Monday morning following. On Sunday evening divine
service was held within the fort by the Rev. Mr. Ruttan, Wesleyan
missionary, at which a large number of Indians were present.
On Monday morning, the Chiefs and most of the Indians of both bands
having assembled at my camp, the Cross Lake band requested to be paid
there, and the Norway House Chief asked that his people might be paid in
the school-house in their village about two miles from the fort. On hearing
that all the Indians that could come were assembled, I consented to pay them
where they desired, and told the Cross Lake Chief to bring his people at
noon to receive their gratuities, the payment of which was satisfactorily
completed the same day.
The next day I crossed over to the Indian village and paid the Norway
House bands their annuities. . . . .
The following morning, Wednesday, August 16th, the Chiefs and Indians
of the two bands having assembled at my camp, I distributed the provisions
The Winnipeg Treaty. 167
implements, &c., which were received with the greatest degree of gratification and
satisfaction. .
On my inquiring of the Chief of Norway House when his band would be
prepared to remove to their reserve at the Fisher River, he informed me
that he had sent two of his people to that locality to report on the same, and
that he could not say anything definite on the matter until their return. I
might here state that, on my way back to Winnipeg I met these men returning from Fisher's
River, who expressed themselves as highly pleased
with the proposed location, and that the band in all probability would remove there
in the spring.
Whilst at Norway House I was waited upon by a Chief and four Councillors from the
vicinity of Oxford House, who were anxious to know if the
same bounties would be extended to them as were being extended to their
brethren of Norway House and Cross Lake, and also whether they could
obtain a reserve on Lake Winnipeg, as the country in which they were
living was totally unfit for cultivation, and that they had the greatest
difficulty in procuring a livelihood. I told them that I had no idea what
were the intentions of the Government with regard to those Indians living
north of the present Treaty, but that I would make known their requests
to Your Excellency, and that they would be duly notified of any action the
Government might take in the matter.
I left Norway House on my return trip, on the morning of the 18th,
arriving at Winnipeg on the afternoon of Saturday the 26th, having that
morning paid my boat's crew off at Selkirk.
I would here mention that previous to my departure from Norway House
there was a very hearty and apparently sincere expression of gratitude, on
the part of all the Indians present, for the liberality extended to them, and
a general and spoken wish that their thanks be conveyed to the Queen's
Representative in this Province for his kind interest in their welfare.
I cannot conclude without hearing testimony to the kindness of Mr. Ross,
Hudson's Bay Company's Factor, and the Rev. Mr. Ruttan, Wesleyan
missionary, for services rendered during the few days occupied in my
making the payments at Norway House.
I enclose herewith statement of expenditure, &c., &c., with vouchers
attached.
I have the honor to be, Sir,
Your obedient servant,
J. LESTOCK REID,
Commissioner
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