Elizabeth Longlade’s Keen Métis Memory

Born in 1847, Elizabeth Longlade (née Dusome) was a proud Métis matriarch whose strength and personality shone through in the everyday moments of her life. Her story, shared in a 1942 interview with the Toronto Star, captures her memories, determination, and independence.

Elizabeth married Charles Longlade in Penetanguishene in 1866, 76 years prior to the article's publication. Together, they built a life rooted in family and hard work. For decades, Elizabeth worked alongside her husband, Charles, and together they raised a large Métis family.   

Four years before the Toronto Star interview marked a turning point in Elizabeth’s life with the death of her beloved husband. That same year, the effects of old age began taking their toll, including the loss of her sight, to the point she could no longer thread her own needle. 

Despite these challenges, Elizabeth maintained the same resilience and spirit that guided her through life. At 95 years old, sharing her story with the Toronto Star was an act of resilience and pride in itself. 

Notably, the article refers to Elizabeth’s acute ability to recall the past:

“Mrs. Longlade’s memory is still keen and she can remember Father Proulx and Father Clarest, pioneer missionaries.”

Like so many Métis women before her, Elizabeth’s strength was not measured in dramatic acts but in her steady service and everyday expressions of care to her Métis family, community, and all those around her.

See Our Sources

• Daughter of Red River Native, Toronto Star, May 8, 1942

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