Storytellers have long sustained Métis communities, celebrating the Métis way of life and safeguarding stories to be shared across generations. Non-Métis storytellers who have immersed themselves in community and captured the authentic Métis voices of their members have also contributed meaningfully to this legacy. A.C. Osborne and Christy Ann Simons are two such observers who, despite not being Métis, took great care to document the vibrant Métis lives, relationships, and ex

The practice of Métis storytelling is not merely a connection to the past, but a vibrant, ongoing tradition kept alive by the voices and memories of today's community members. Among these storytellers, Dolores Pinder (née Bussineau) stands out for her dedication to preserving the history of the Historic Sault Ste. Marie Métis Community.  As an advisor, knowledge holder, and lifelong community advocate, Dolores shared stories rooted in her family’s original Métis River Lot hom

Lewis Solomon was a prominent figure throughout the Upper Great Lakes Métis community, known for his extensive travels as a Métis guide throughout the region. His numerous adventures ensured he had a remarkable collection of stories, a direct result of his life of constant movement and connection-making. Solomon offered insights into his lifetime of memorable experiences in A.C. Osborne’s, The Migration of Voyageurs from Drummond Island to Penetanguishene in 1828 . Lewis’ nar

John Saunders was a Métis storyteller from the Abitibi Inland Métis Community, born in 1845 at Matawagamingue—a small inland Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) post. In his 1867 autobiography, John documented stories from his upbringing and early career, casting light on both his Métis community and the fur trade world within which he grew up.  With his Métis family, John spent his early years immersed in the fur trade world, watching his father Valentine practice essential tradition

Métis across the Homeland relied on fishing for sustenance throughout the year. Not only did fishing provide food to Métis communities, but it was also relied upon by many as an essential economic practice.  During the winter months, Métis along Northern Lake Superior had to be creative if they were going to continue fishing on the frozen lakes and waterways. One common practice was ice spearfishing. In January 1840, for instance, an ice spear fishery in Michipicoten Bay yiel

Métis communities across the Homeland have always shared a love of food. Stews and soups were and continue to be a warm, hearty meal during winter, using ingredients found within each Métis community’s place in the Homeland. One stew shared across the Homeland is Rubaboo. Rubaboo is a hearty stew or soup made from meat, vegetables, and water. The earliest record of this cultural dish dates back to the 1800s.    Traditionally, Rubaboo was made of peas or corn with bear or pork