Resistance: “repeated and earnest”

As early as 1838, Métis in Killarney raised concerns about protecting their fishing rights. As an economic activity and a cornerstone of daily life, fishing sustained families and anchored community wellbeing along Lake Huron’s north shore.

Time and again, Métis at Killarney acted to defend their traditional way of life against external pressures and changing political realities. During his travels along Lake Huron, a Roman Catholic priest recorded these concerns in correspondence to the Lieutenant Governor, writing:

“In the course of my journey I had repeated and earnest solicitations from the Half Breeds … to use my best endeavours to obtain for them and their families the same privileges and advantages as the pure Indians have acquired by their arrangement made with Sir Francis Bond.”

Through their "repeated and earnest solicitations," Métis at Killarney exhibited a collective political awareness, separate from the Anishinaabe of Manitoulin who had recently entered the Bond Head Treaty in 1836. While not a formal petition, the Métis were clearly aware of their rights and sought a means to advocate for them. Their appeal highlights the persistence, unity, and resistance that defined Métis political action in the Upper Great Lakes, ultimately establishing the foundation for the resilient Métis communities that continue to thrive today.

See Our Sources

• Upper Great Lakes Expert Panel Report

• Letter by Bishop Gaulin about the Manitoulin Half Breeds, 1838

Mini Word Search

Have fun with the facts by completing today's mini word search.