“Half-breeds… full of glee”

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 lungs and spirits.”

Jameson’s impressions and recordings of the distinct Métis identity in the Upper Great Lakes reflect those of many other observers from her era.

Through their spirited demeanour and connection-building work as guides and interpreters, Métis built relationships with each other and other diverse peoples, both reinforcing and sharing their proud Métis heritage in the process.

See Our Sources

• Anna Jameson, Winter Studies and Summer Rambles in Canada, Volume III (London: Saunders and Otley, 1838),

• Upper Great Lakes Submissions to the Expert Panel

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