The Treaties with the Indians of Canada

In 1850, the Government of the Province of Canada, recognizing the mineral wealth along Lakes Huron and Superior, tasked William B. Robinson with negotiating treaties to extinguish Indigenous land titles. The Robinson Treaties established annuities, land reserves, and hunting rights for local tribes. Robinson adeptly addressed Indian concerns, particularly regarding compensation for mining rights, securing an agreement of £4,000 and an annual £1,000 annuity. His negotiations included significant participation from both Indigenous leaders and half-breeds, ultimately fostering a cordial relationship among the parties involved.

The Qu’Appelle Treaty, established in 1874, involved the Cree and Saulteaux tribes surrendering approximately 75,000 square miles of land at Qu’Appelle Lakes. This treaty marked a vital step in fostering relations between the Indigenous tribes and the Canadian government. It aimed to address the lawlessness in the North-West Territories, leading to the establishment of local governance and law enforcement. The treaty was signed after considerable negotiation, ultimately granting the tribes terms similar to those of Treaty Number Three, including supplementary agreements with previously unrepresented bands.

At the Qu’Appelle Treaty conference, Chiefs presented themselves to Lieutenant-Governor Morris, seeking terms similar to those at the Lake of the Woods. Morris explained the differences in payments due to varying conditions and reiterated the Queen’s commitments to both nations. Despite requests for increased compensation, Morris asserted they could only offer the same terms as before. After discussions, the Chiefs signed the treaty, grateful for the support offered. Morris emphasized the importance of friendship and the Queen’s justice towards all her children.

On September 14, Lieutenant-Governor Morris addressed the Cree and Saulteaux, emphasizing the importance of unity and understanding between the two nations. He expressed concern about the lack of communication from their leaders and urged them to consider the needs of their distant brethren. Morris reiterated the government’s neutrality regarding trade rights, stressing the Queen’s intentions for the well-being of the Indigenous peoples. He called for a thoughtful resolution, expressing hope that they would come together to discuss their lands and future with sincerity and goodwill.

At the opening of the conference, Commissioners welcomed the Indigenous leaders, notably noting the absence of Chief Cote, the Pigeon, of the Saulteaux tribe. The Lieutenant-Governor emphasized the Queen’s desire for communication and cooperation, urging the tribes to select spokespeople for negotiations about land and support. The Cree expressed uncertainty on representation, promising to decide by the next day. They were reminded of the importance of choosing a suitable place for their gathering, fostering a sense of community as the discussions began.

During the Sixth Day’s Conference regarding the Qu’Appelle Treaty, Lieut.-Governor Morris emphasized his role as a listener to the Cree and Saulteaux leaders, expressing a desire for mutual understanding. Chiefs shared their concerns and aspirations, seeking assurances from the Queen for support and assistance. The discussion highlighted the importance of clear communication and the need for a treaty beneficial to both tribes. The chiefs showed unity in their desire to finalize the treaty, ensuring it would also represent the absent members of their nations.

The dialogue between Lieutenant-Governor Morris and The Gambler reveals deep tensions over land rights of Indigenous peoples and the Hudson Bay Company (HBC). The Gambler expresses frustration over the HBC’s influence and the lack of communication regarding land surveys. Morris asserts the Queen’s authority in land management and emphasizes that the Company operates under her permission, seeking a resolution that honors both the Indigenous peoples and the Company’s rights. The conversation highlights the complexities of colonial authority, Indigenous agency, and the promise of fair dealings from the Crown.

On September 12, 1874, a meeting was held between the Indian delegates—two Cree and two Saulteaux—and the Queen’s Commissioners, led by the Lieutenant Governor. The Indigenous leaders requested to meet away from the soldiers’ camp for open dialogue. The Governor conveyed the Queen’s message, emphasizing her care and support for Indigenous peoples, offering land, tools for farming, and schooling for their children. However, tensions arose as some leaders hesitated to engage fully due to unresolved matters, highlighting the complexities of the treaty discussions.

On September 11, 1874, the Cree leaders convened with government Commissioners, though the Saulteaux Chief was absent. The Lieutenant-Governor conveyed the Queen’s message, expressing her concern for the Indigenous peoples’ hardships and offering support. He proposed assistance in learning agricultural practices, annual monetary aid, and provisions for establishing homes and schools. He emphasized the Queen’s care for future generations and urged the Cree to consider this opportunity thoughtfully before returning to discuss further. The meeting aimed to solidify an agreement through mutual cooperation.

On September 9, 1874, Lieutenant-Governor Morris addressed the Cree and Saulteaux leaders, emphasizing the importance of establishing a treaty with the Queen’s representatives. He expressed disappointment at the Saulteaux’s absence, urging them to engage in discussions vital for their future generations. While some chiefs indicated they weren’t ready to speak, Morris sought a commitment to meet the next day. He underscored the Queen’s consideration for their well-being and the need for unity among the tribes before moving forward with the treaty.

In 1871, Joseph Howe proposed the appointment of Wemyss McKenzie Simpson as Indian Commissioner to negotiate land cessions with the Indigenous bands between Thunder Bay and the Stone Fort. Simpson, alongside S. J. Dawson and Robert Pether, consulted with Manitoba’s Lieutenant-Governor A. G. Archibald and influential half-breed James McKay. Responding to Indigenous unease over settlers and land claims, they aimed to secure treaties, addressing the extinguishing of Indian title to lands in Manitoba and adjacent timber areas. Negotiations were set to take place at Lower Fort Garry.

During the second day of the treaty conference, Indigenous leaders expressed their concerns about the imprisonment of four Swampy Cree Indians, which clouded the discussions. After their release, the atmosphere improved, leading to a treaty on August 3, 1871, that involved relinquishing Indian title for land reserves, school provisions, and a modest annuity. A follow-up meeting at Manitoba Post confirmed acceptance of these terms with minimal negotiation. However, misunderstandings regarding unfulfilled promises later necessitated a revision of the treaties in 1875.

In July and August 1871, Mr. Simpson announced meetings at Stone Fort to negotiate an Indian treaty, with a proclamation banning liquor sales during these talks. The first assembly on July 27 attracted a thousand Indigenous people, where Lieutenant-Governor Archibald emphasized the Queen’s intent to treat all her children equally and promote their well-being. He encouraged adopting agricultural practices while ensuring Indians retained their rights to hunt. The gathering set the stage for discussions on land reserves and representation, fostering an atmosphere of fairness and open dialogue.