Cree

The Blackfeet Treaty – Monday, 17th October

On October 17th, the anticipated opening of the Blackfeet Treaty was postponed to the following Wednesday due to the absence of several Indian Chiefs. Governor and Col. McLeod addressed the assembled Chiefs, reassuring them of the Queen’s goodwill and intentions. They outlined treaty terms, including annual payments and provisions for cattle, promoting a transition from buffalo hunting to farming. The Governor emphasized cooperation with the police for mutual benefit and encouraged discussions among the Chiefs before making a decision on the treaty’s acceptance.

The Blackfeet Treaty – Government House, Battleford, North-West Territory

On August 4, a commission was established to negotiate a treaty with the Blackfeet Indians in the North-West Territories. After preparing for the journey, the author left Swan River on August 11 and arrived in Battleford by August 24. There, he learned that the treaty meeting would occur at the Blackfoot crossing of the Bow River, prompted by Chief Crowfoot’s request. The journey involved crossing challenging rivers and observing diminishing buffalo herds. Upon reaching the treaty site on September 1, the author met various chiefs, gathering valuable insights into the local tribes and their needs.

The Blackfeet Treaty – Payments were Completed

On Friday, the payments to the Blackfeet, as stipulated in the treaty, were finalized, totaling $52,954 for 4,392 individuals. The Cree, who adhered to Treaty Number Six, received their gratuity of $5,203. The process was efficiently managed by the Police Force, with commendable efforts from Lieut. Col. McLeod and Major Irvine. Following the completion of accounts, the Commissioner began his return journey, highlighting plans for reserves and annual payments. The Blackfeet’s preference for cattle over agricultural implements was noted, along with their organizational structure.

The Blackfeet Treaty – Saturday, 22nd September 1876

On September 22, 1876, a significant treaty signing occurred between the Commissioners and the Blackfeet tribes, attended by many Chiefs, including Red Crow. After interpreting the treaty conditions, the Chiefs expressed their acceptance, with Crowfoot officially signing. Celebrations included a salute and the presentation of medals and flags. Following the treaty, Chiefs and their bands were honored, and payments were initiated by the Mounted Police. By September 24, additional minor Chiefs signed, further solidifying the agreement. Gratitude was exchanged between the Indians and the Commissioners throughout the week.

The Blackfeet Treaty – On Tuesday

On Tuesday, the Cree Chief and his band gathered to discuss their inclusion in the treaty negotiations, expressing a desire for a reserve near Pigeon Lake. The Commissioners advised him to join Treaty Number Six, ensuring his band would receive rations while awaiting the Blackfeet treaty resolution. Throughout the meetings, various Indian leaders expressed their views, with most agreeing to the terms proposed. By Wednesday, Crowfoot and other influential chiefs indicated their intent to accept the treaty. Discussions on reserves were planned for later consultations, ensuring collective agreement among the tribes.

The Blackfeet Treaty – On our journey

During the journey through Treaty Number Six, encounters with Indigenous peoples intensified after crossing Red Deer River. The Cree were friendly but reserved, while the Blackfeet welcomed the party warmly. Arriving at Fort McLeod, the group received a grand reception and discussed treaty matters, emphasizing the importance of collective engagement from all tribes. Notably, Reverend Father Scollen provided helpful insights for negotiations, while the Mounted Police earned high praise for their fair treatment of the Indigenous visitors. Preparations for treaty talks continued, with a focus on inclusive discussions among the tribes.

The Blackfeet Treaty – Sunday Afternoon

On Sunday, the Blackfeet engaged in a ritualistic horse battle, creating tension among spectators. The subsequent days focused on the payment of tribes by inspectors, who faced challenges verifying family numbers. By Wednesday, Chiefs expressed satisfaction with the treaty and pledged loyalty to its terms. The Lieutenant Governor commended their commitment, reiterating that the Mounted Police were allies. Following the ceremony, the Governor departed, and traders were instructed to vacate the reservation, marking the end of this significant diplomatic engagement during a harsh winter.

The Blackfeet Treaty – Thursday, October 19th.

At a council meeting, the Governor reassured Blackfeet chiefs about their hunting rights and promised fair compensation for land and resources. Button Chief expressed gratitude for the Police’s protection but requested annual payments and compensation for timber used. The Governor countered that the Indians should be thankful for the peace provided by the Police. He emphasized that while they cannot promise yearly treaties, payments would increase with population growth. Bears Paw also voiced his hope for prompt provisions and support for his tribe.

The Blackfeet Treaty – Report from correspondence in The Globe newspaper

On September 22, 1877, the Blackfeet Treaty was signed by chiefs of the Blackfeet, Blood, Piegan, and Sarcee tribes, witnessed by Governor Laird and Colonel McLeod, near the Great Bow River. Upon the Governor’s arrival on October 4, he was met with a grand escort, a salute, and a warm welcome from the citizens of Fort McLeod. During his visit, he expressed admiration for the local Mounted Police and praised the community’s development since their arrival. The Governor’s stay lasted until October 14, when he departed with a military detachment to the treaty site.

North-West Angle, October 1, 1873

On October 1, 1873, Chiefs gathered with the Governor to discuss treaty terms, expressing dissatisfaction with unfulfilled past promises. Commissioner Mr. S. J. Dawson sought to negotiate new terms, emphasizing cooperation for mutual benefit. The Governor insisted on addressing all questions collectively, highlighting the importance of friendship and shared resources between the two groups. He tentatively offered lands, annual payments, and provisions, urging the Chiefs to accept his proposals. Subsequent discussions were anticipated, with the expectation of further demands from the Indian Council.

North-West Angle – Boundaries Of The Lands To Be Ceded

The treaty boundaries begin at the North-West Angle, incorporating the Lake of the Woods region and extending through various waterways to encompass approximately 55,000 square miles. Several bands, including those near Lac des Mille Lacs and Shebandowan, express willingness to accept treaty terms but are unable to travel to the designated meeting point. The estimated 14,000 Indigenous inhabitants are represented by chiefs from multiple bands, including Rat Portage, Lake Seul, and Rainy River, among others.

North-West Angle, October 1, 1873 – Mill

During a treaty negotiation, Chief Mawedopenais expressed discontent over the quality of a commemorative medal, advocating for one befitting the Queen’s image. After an open and respectful exchange, the Chief symbolically surrendered his land as the Governor pledged to uphold promises made. The treaty was signed, followed by the distribution of presents and treaty money, leading to vibrant trade among the Indigenous people. The event was marked by a sense of order and dignity, culminating in communal festivities before the Governor and troops departed.

North-West Angle, October 1, 1873 – Government to send Surveyors

On October 1, 1873, a discussion took place between Commissioner Provencher and a chief regarding land reserves and treaty terms. The chief emphasized the importance of self-determined boundaries for their reserves and expressed concerns about outsiders influencing their lands and lives. He requested a representative who understands their language for negotiations and voiced opposition to alcohol in their territory. The governor assured that the Queen’s government would address complaints and maintain order, while emphasizing the need for friendship and peace. The chief sought assurances for basic provisions and assistance for housing as part of their agreement.

North-West Angle, October 1, 1873 – Third Day

On October 1, 1873, negotiations continued as the Governor welcomed the Chiefs, led by spokesmen from Fort Francis. Chiefs expressed gratitude for the meeting but insisted on their claims to land and fair compensation, proposing significant annual payments. The Governor, constrained by the Queen’s authority, urged acceptance of his “liberal” offer, emphasizing the importance of reaching a treaty for future generations. Despite differing opinions among the tribes, a later council resulted in a unified decision to accept the terms with modifications, setting the stage for a final agreement.

North-West Angle, October 1, 1873 – Treaty Closed

On October 3, 1873, negotiations for a treaty between the Governor and Indigenous leaders at North-West Angle appeared bleak. However, after further discussions and the Governor’s firm stance, the Chiefs ultimately accepted the terms, with modifications. The treaty was signed the following day, leading to the distribution of provisions and tools for farming. The Governor emphasized support for their agricultural efforts, and various requests from the Chiefs, including provisions for Half-breeds, were addressed, setting the stage for ongoing relations between the parties.

North-West Angle, September 30, 1873

On September 24, 1873, the Lieutenant Governor and treaty commissioners arrived at North-West Angle, where preparations for negotiations with approximately 800 Indigenous participants were underway. Despite pleasant weather, delays plagued the proceedings as many chiefs were unprepared, citing internal disputes and the need for consensus among their ranks. This led to postponements, and by Monday, the mood turned grim due to cold weather and unresolved issues. The Governor warned that if the chiefs did not finalize their discussions by Wednesday, he would depart, risking the treaty’s failure.

The Treaties At Forts Carlton And Pitt – 17th of August

On August 17, as treaty negotiations began, a chief insisted meetings could only occur at Duck Lake, yet the Carlton Indians expressed readiness to convene the next day. Provisions were withheld from Duck Lake due to their lack of cooperation. The council site was chosen for its scenic beauty, where the Indians assembled with traditional ceremonies. Despite their apprehensions about the treaty’s implications, officials addressed their concerns, urging adaptation to farming. The following days saw further deliberations, with chiefs seeking time to consider the proposals amidst internal divisions and external pressures.

The Treaties At Forts Carlton And Pitt – 10th of August

On August 10, Rev. Mr. McKay led a service for attendees at Fort Pitt, followed by Rev. Mr. McDougall’s Cree service and others for the Cree and Chippewayan communities. The following day, Mr. Christie finalized provisions and payments as the police prepared to depart for Battle River. Key discussions arose with Cree Chief Great Bear about treaty terms and the protection of buffalo. Ultimately, Great Bear expressed intent to accept the treaty next year, while Red Pheasant sought assistance for his community’s needs before relocating.

The Treaties At Forts Carlton And Pitt – Narrative of the Proceedings

In August 1876, the expedition for Treaty Number Six arrived at the South Saskatchewan River, welcomed by Cree Indians and a representative from Carlton House. The Commissioners were escorted to Fort Carlton by Mounted Police and encountered a significant Cree encampment. The Cree requested an additional day for their deliberations before meeting the Governor and Commissioners on August 18 to discuss the treaty. This narrative by A. G. Jackes, Secretary to the Commission, details the interactions and preparations leading to the treaty discussions.

The Treaties At Forts Carlton And Pitt – Government House

On December 4, 1876, an official from Government House in Manitoba detailed his journey to negotiate treaties with the Plain Cree, fulfilling a promise made by the late Rev. George McDougall. After departing Fort Garry, he faced challenges, including a storm and interactions with Sioux and Cree groups along the way. He successfully crossed the South Saskatchewan River and was welcomed by Cree leaders at Duck Lake, while ensuring the treaty negotiations would take place at Fort Carlton. The locals expressed strong support for his mission.