ONTARIO MÉTIS FACTS

In 1837, while journeying through the Upper Great Lakes, influential British writer Anna Jameson documented the daily rhythms of canoe travel, noting the powerful presence of music among her Métis guides and paddlers. Jameson noted how the men sang as they paddled, their lively and unified voices rising together across the water. Among those Métis singers was Lewis (Louis) Solomon, whose voice left a particularly strong impression: “The men sang their gay French songs, the ot

While traveling from Penetanguishene to Manitoulin Island through Georgian Bay in the mid-1800s, influential British writer Anna Jameson noted the distinctive presence of the Métis men in her company from the settlers in the expedition. In their appearance, demeanor, and work ethic, they conveyed a clear and recognizable identity: “The other men were all picked men, Canadian half‐breeds, young, well‐looking, full of glee and good‐nature, with untiring arms and more untiring l

Many members of the Upper Great Lakes Métis Community utilized their knowledge of the lands, waters, and local peoples to maintain meaningful employment as guides and interpreters.   Lewis Solomon, a member of the Métis community at Penetanguishene, was one of those guides.   Lewis was born on Drummond Island in 1821 and later moved to Penetanguishene during the community’s relocation in 1829. As a young adult, Lewis pursued “a tolerably fair education” that afforded him a “c