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- 1808- Letter from Monk to Provost- Report on Indian Affairs in Nova Scotia
- Letter from Monk to Provost discussing the state of the relationship with the Mi'kmaq in Nova Scotia. The British were worried about the increasing threat of American invasion in Nova Scotia, and were concerned the Mi'kmaq would side with the invaders. This letter contains many interesting elements pertaining to the ways that the British sought to mend relations with the Mi'kmaq, and for their long-term "civilization" plans. It also contains interesting references to the Mi'kmaq of Pictou, some of whom travelled to Quebec to meet with Indigenous people from Canada (Quebec and Ontario) and also with representatives of the American military. The letter also discusses one Mi'kmaq man stating that he and a few others, if war was declared, could "scalp all the inhabitants" of Pictou "in two nights.", “Halifax, 23rd April 1808 To His Excellency Sir George Provost [Governor of Nova Scotia] Sir, As Superintendent of Indian Affairs for Nova Scotia, I have the honor to inform your excellency, that on the 20th of October last, the Province was divided into twelve Indian districts and a confidential correspondent stationed in each, by a circular letter, of which a copy is herewith enclosed. That, from these correspondents, and otherwise, I have been informed that the Indians expect the province will be invaded, and it appears generally to be their intention in case of such an event, to remain neutral until they can form an opinion of the strength of the enemy; and then in their own words, to join the strongest party. That the Indians of Cape Breton have agreed with those of Nova Scotia in that determination. That several Indians went last autumn from Pictou to Quebec, as it was understood, to establish a communication with the [pg. 2] The Indians of Canada. That [five] Nova Scotia Indians who had been sometime in Canada returned to the Province last summer, and informed a man employed in the Indian Department, that there were many men from the United States with the Canada Indians, and much talk of War among them. That in the District of Pictou, some Indians have declared they will not accept anything from Government, as they expect the country will be invaded, and conquered – and one of them was heard to say, that in case of war, he, and a few others, could scalp all the Inhabitants in two nights. That at Sable River the Indians refused to account for there being [absented] in a greater number than usual; and insolently expressed a determination not to accept of anything from government, now that war was expected, as nothing had been offered to them during the last Peace. That the inhabitants of Shelburne have been alarmed by the [] of some Indians in that neighbourhood. That in some other Districts the Indians are better disposed; and, in Cumberland, they have declared that it is their wish to remain neuter [neutral], “but if they are compelled [pg. 3] Compelled to fight, it shall be for their King George.” And that while part of the Militia were imbodied in their Garrison, the Policy of drawing the Indians from their undefended towns and remote settlements led to the measure of giving some powder, shot, provisions, and other articles to those who came to Halifax, and applied for such assistance. The Indians of this province are of the Mickmack [sic] tribe; which formerly was numerous and received liberal presents from Government, and latterly, occasional relief. They are now degenerates to a race of wanderers, frequently suffering from want. Several of them cultivate lands that have been allotted to them; and a few work occasionally for farmers. They are so continually moving from place to place, that it has not been practicable to ascertain their numbers: but the Men and Lads now within the present limits of Nova Scotia, able to use arms, are reckoned to be from 350-400. Small as this number is, if they should take part with an invading enemy, they might harass, and destroy the scattered inhabitants of new settlements. [Pg. 4] Should it be deemed advisable to establish a system for the management, and relief of the Indians, I would beg leave most respectfully, to suggest the measure of having a Dept. of Arms, Ammunition, Clothing, and Provisions, in each Indian District, for the use of them, who with their families would become stationary and give a Religious test of their fidelity, and readiness to serve, when ordered. That thereupon the correspondents on Indian Affairs in the several districts, together with a parish Priest, should, nearly at the same time, assemble the Indians and ascertain their numbers in each, and cause them to [] some one from amongst themselves, and propelling their confidence, to wait upon your Excellency, and be nominated their leader, or chief; and in that character to receive all orders respecting them, through the resident correspondent, or superintendent. That such assistance of Implements and seed should be given to those who incline to clear and cultivate land, as would induce others to follow their example and become reconciled to a stationary residence, and occupations affording a certain subsistence. It would be in the power of the Roman Catholic [pg. 5] Catholic Priests in this Province, who I am convinced are all well disposed to assist in persuading the Indians to change their way of life, their habits, and their [gods], and to become orderly subjects. It is a custom with the Indians particularly to visit their Priests: and this custom, frequently calls them together from considerable distances along the coast, on the rivers, and lakes, and through the forests; during which their subsistence depends upon the game they find in their way. This custom is a principal cause of their continuing their wandering life. Were their [sic] priests to recommend the cultivating small fields in villages, and regularly to visit the Indians in these settlements, and commend their dealings, and industry, it would be a great inducement to a change of life and habits. When it is considered that the Province of Nova Scotia, being a Peninsula, has no back country for the Aborigines to retreat to, as the population and improvments by their conquerors occupy the rivers and forests that were the sources of their means of subsistence, it is obvios that they must resort to other means, or suffer from want. Those means [pg. 6] Means would probably be obtained by encouraging them to become stationary, and granting a regular continuance of the charity of government, to these should conform to the conditions of settlement required of them, and in such articles as would lend to produce the comforts resulting from labour and industry in society. The Indians could make their own clothing of such coarse, cheap materials as could be procured in Halifax as they are wanted. Provisions and Implements for clearing and cultivating land could also be procured for this Province, as there might be occasion for either. The annual expense of such an establishment would depend upon the numbers that might avail themselves of that means of subsistence, and upon the allowance of pay to the persons employed to give effect to the measure. Therefore, the amount cannot be now ascertained, but, I am of opinion, hat supplies of provisions, clothing, seed, and implements to each family, on an average to the amount of 30 [pounds] for the first year, 20 [pounds] for the second, and 10 [pounds] for the third year would leave them in a situation to provide for themselves afterwards. Compensation to the Superintendent, Store keeper, Clerk, Resident Correspondents, travelling [pg. 7] Travelling expenses of Priests, and fees of Office for Grants and Surveys of lands, would be, whatever government should think proper; and would probably be determined by the time they were occasionally employed. I have the honor to be with high and unfeigned respect, Sir, Your Excellency’s most Humble and Obedient Servant, G.H. Monk, Letter from George Henry Monk to Sir George Provost, April 23 1808, Public Archives of Nova Scotia, RG 1, vol. 430, Doc 145.
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- 1829- Petition by James Lulan for title to land at Moodie Point
- Petition from James Lulan, asking for title for a piece of land at Moodie Point, which the Mi'kmaq in Pictou had cleared and planted for the last 50 years (not to mention had used for thousands of years prior to white settlement). The settler who pre-empted the land, Mr. Moodie, asked for them to be removed from the land. Lulan asked for this land to be granted or for a similar tract of land somewhere else, but insisted that it be near the town of Pictou. The letter also asked for relief to help them as they would not be able to rely on their spring planting as they had no access to land., “Pictou 2 March 1829 To His Excellency Sir Peregrine Maitland. H.C.B. Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief in and over His Masgesties [sic] Province of Nova Scotia and its dependencies etc. etc. etc. The Petition of James [Lulan] an Indian of the Micmac tribe, residing in the District of Pictou on behalf of himself and others of said Tribe, most humbly and respectfully shewith: That for upwards of fifty years the fathers of your petitioners and your petitioners themselves have been in the possession of a piece of land at the mouth of the harbour of Pictou and have made a considerable clearing there. That at the commencement of last spring your petitioners were prevented from planting as usual by the proprietor Mr. Moodie to whom it has been granted and have since been ordered to leave said place. That the hardships of the case of your petitioners must appear respectfully plain to your Excellency, and that your petitioners will be deprived of the small piece of ground they usually used for the purpose [pg.2] [of] planting potatoes and corn. They therefore must earnestly pray that your Excellency will afford them some relief either by granting them some piece of ground near the town or that the piece that they have occupied so long may be purchased for them. Your petitioners would also beg leave to represent that said tribe is suffering considerably at this inclement season of the year, in consequence of the want of food aid that they now are enduring privations which would hardly be imagined they would be able to suffer. We therefore beg that your Excellency would appropriate a small portion of the contingent fund to enable them to purchase food for their immediate wants, and also to procure seed for the ensuing spring. And your petitioners will ever pray, James Lulan [His Mark] We beg leave to certify that the Petitioner James Lulan is a sober, honest, and industrious man and is acknowledged as the Chief of the Indians at Pictou – that the facts stated in the petition are true, and that should any money be [] to the Petitioner it will be faithfully spent and accounted for. Halifax 6 March 1829 Geo. Smith [] McDonald Tho. [Dickson] [McKean], James Lulan is a guess as the name is hard to read in the old petition., James Lulan, Chief of Pictou, to Sir Peregrine, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, March 2 1829, Public Archives of Nova Scotia, Vol 430 (Indian Commissioner Series), File 168.
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- 1831- Letter from Denoon asking for Land Grant for Mi'kmaq at Moodie Point
- Letter from Denoon and Dickason asking for a tract of land owned by Thomas Moodie of Pictou to be granted to the Mi'kmaq living in the region. Denoon and Dickason state that the Mi'kmaq had lived at the land for some time, and that they were of opinion that it should be purchased and surveyed for them., “Pictou March 8th 1831 To Sir Rupert George, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, Sir, In reply to your letter of the 22nd ultimo on the subject of the Indians who frequent the neighbourhood of this place, and the purchase of a piece of land for their use, we beg leave to report for the information of His Excellency, the Lieut. Governor, that we have made every enquiry in our power and find the state of their case to be as follows: The land on which alone they are anxious to form a permanent settlement, is near and adjoining Boat Harbour, about three miles to the entrance of the Town of Pictou and on the southern side of the entrance to the harbour. It is the property of one Thomas Moodie of this place, watchmaker, and is under mortgage by him to Charles Timothy Esq. of Halifax. The whole tract consists of 500 acres and the Indians are desirous of obtaining [pg. 2] Obtaining proportion of 100 acres on the eastern side of it, upon which Moodie puts the price of 140 [pounds] currency. Upon investigating the title of Moodie to this lot of land, as far as we have had it is in our power to do so, we are of opinion that some difficulty on that point might hereafter arise, unless it is cured by the lapse of time, of the [] we suppose Mr. Timothy would be better able to give an opinion that could be depended upon, and should it become necessary, we beg to refer His Excellency to those Gentlemen on this subject. If His Excellency has available funds for this purpose, and the lot the Indians are desirous of obtaining can be procured for 100 [pounds], we think the experiment will be worth trying and as far as our services can be made to further an object calculated to do so much good to these unfortunate Indians. His Excellency may rely on them being most gladly rendered, in which we make no doubt of having Mr. [pg. 3] Smith’s [cheerful] assistance, we are of opinion that less than 100 acres would not answer any useful purpose, and should the purchase be made, it ought to be done in such way that the Indians can have no further control over the land that while permitted to occupy it. We have the honor to be, Sir, Your most obedient humble servants, Hugh Denoon M. Dickason, Hugh Denoon and M. Dickason, to Sir Rupert George, March 8 1831, Public Archives of Nova Scotia, Vol. 430, File 186A.
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- 1831- Letter from George Smith pertaining to Land for Indians at Moodie Point
- Poor copy letter from George Smith (resident of Pictou) asking for the Lieutenant Governor to consider allowing the purchase of land from Mr. Moodie at Moodie point for the Mi'kmaq who were already residing on the land. Smith stated that the Mi'kmaq would only accept that tract of land, and he asked for the government to purchase it. Moodie agreed to the sale. Interestingly, early maps of Pictou show an Indian Village at that point, predating Moodie's claims., Pictou 10th June 1831 To Sir Rupert George Sir, After a good case of correspondence relative to a [] for the Indians in which his Excellency Sir P. Maitland took so [] an interest and so kindly offered to purchase, I find Indians so attached to their personal possession at the entrance of the Harbour that no other [place] would satisfy them, and the proprietor Mr. Moodie [] [] agree to sell, he has however stated to me in writing he will take for the lot in question [one?] hundred [twenty? Seventy?] pounds which is less twenty pounds than his offer []. [] [] [] [] is the best that can be done, the [] [] is worth nearly the [] [] and is very convenient and desirable for these poor people if [pg.2] If it is out of the power of His Excellency to go farther than the sum already stated which I recall was 110 [pounds], it is [less] likely the Indians will be [] in the [] and [][] [] to procure an application from the inhabitants on behalf of those poor people to His Excellency and the Legislature at this such locality. The letter you sent me was by dispatch forwarded to Antigonish the [correspondence] I wanted was for 20 [pound] the 5th note on the crops noted list for Pictou “from the Bridge at Grant’s High River, west side said branch Sail River, towards [] Bridge.” It is in the appropriation further [westward?]. I am sorry His Excellency’s benevolence is [] as regards to his Indian [] at present [Pg.3] To come into effect without some plan I have [] various ways accomplish the [] objects []. I have the honor to be, Sir, George Smith, Letter is poorly preserved and difficult to decipher. Words with square brackets [example] are estimates based on the letters and tone of the general text., George Smith, to Sir R. George, June 10 1831, Public Archives of Nova Scotia, Vol. 430 (Indian Commissioner Series), File 186B.
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- 1834- Letter from Hugh Denoon asking for Land for Mi'kmaq of Moodie Point
- Letter from Hugh Denoon of Pictou asking for land for the Mi'kmaq living in Pictou. Stated that they wished to get title to land they had occupied for some time at Moodie Point., “Pictou, 22nd July 1834 Sir R. George, Sir, I beg leave to state that the few remaining Indians residing in this district are quite destitute of means and necessities of life. The bearer [] Paul is one of the best. He is a sober man, and lately did his best to support a son who died of consumption. He does to Halifax for aid to buy a [] and to apply for license to occupy at parcel of the land at the entrance to this Harbour which they the Indians claimed, at [] and of which you wrote about some years back – one hundred acres would answer their purposes. I believe Mr. Archibald McDonald and a Mr. [] of Halifax have some claims on the property. I have the honor to be respectfully Sir, your obedient servant, Hugh Denoon, It appears that this letter might have been in 1834, but in context of other letters it makes more sense that it is from 1831. The extra writing around the '1' in the letter may be from a later copy or from the microfilm reel., Hugh Denoon, to Sir R. George, July 22nd 1834, Public Archives of Nova Scotia, Vol. 430 (Indian Commissioner Series), File 168., Hugh Denoon, to Sir Rupert George, July 22 1831, Public Archives of Nova Scotia, Vol. 430 (Indian Commissioner Series). file 186C.
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- 1835- Disbursements on Account of Indians in 1834-35
- Report on disbursements of relief to different Mi'kmaq Communities in Nova Scotia., “Disbursements on Account of Indians in 1834-35 [not a great 1834?] …10[Amount]…Pictou[Place]…Blankets[Article]…H. Denoon [To Whom]…7[pounds] 10 [Shillings]", Public Archives of Nova Scotia, RG1, Vol. 431, file 5.
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- 1836- The Petition of Matthew Sapier and other Indians
- A Petition from Joseph and Matthew Sapier, asking for muskets, food, blankets, and other necessities to be given for the Mi'kmaq living at Pictou. Stated that the Mi'kmaq had "pitched their winter wigwams" at Pictou, and sent these two to Halifax to ask for relief. At this point, the Mi'kmaq of Pictou County had no reserved land and were forced to occupy, and technically (by British law) trespass on settler land to camp., “January 18 1836, Merigomish To His Excellency Lieutenant General Sir Colin Campbell, K.C.B., Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief in and over the Province of Nova Scotia and its Dependencies etc. etc. etc. The Petition of Matthew Sapier [Lapier] and other Indians – most humbly shewith: That your memorialists are of the native Aborigines of the British Colonial Province, which your Excellency at present rules; and generally reside in Pictou, the place of their nativity. That your Memorialists are given to understand, that your Excellency’s benevolence has lately been extended in a most liberal manner to many of our Aboriginal brethren in supplying them with blankets, clothing, and muskets etc. and considering that the munificent hand of your Excellency would also be stretched out to us; your Memorialists have been induced to undertake a journey at this late season of the year from Merigomish, in the District of Pictou, where we have pitched our winter wigwams, a distance of upwards of one hundred and seventy miles, to make known our wants to your excellency and to implore your kind and benevolent assistance. There are about thirty six families who are all destitute of almost all the necessities of life, especially of blankets, and clothing, and scarcely any of us possess a musket that is of any use to us; and fire arms and ammunition are if the most essential service to us Indians, being almost, at all seasons, the only means of our subsistence. Your memorialists, therefore, most humbly [pg. 2] Humbly, and most earnestly solicit that your Excellency will be pleased, seriously to consider and commiserate their destitute, and distressed condition, and order them to receive such supplies as your Excellency, in your wisdom and benevolence, may deem proper. And your memorialists, as in duty bound, will every pray etc. etc. Matthew Sapier [x] his mark Joseph Sapier [x] his mark On behalf of themselves and their other Aboriginal brethren The Above subscribing Petitioner, Matthew [Mattel?] Sapier, is a Captain and Chief amongst the Indians in this quarter. He was the first Indian I saw on my arrival to Pictou, upwards of forty years ago, and has always behaved himself in an honest, sober, and temperate manner, and merits the consideration of your Excellency. R. Lowden, J.P. [Justice of the Peace] George Smith, J.P. James Carmichael, J.P. Robert McGray, J.P., Public Archives of Nova Scotia, RG 1, Vol. 431 (Indian Commissioner Series), file 23.
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- 1837- Letter from George Smith to Deputy Secretary Indian Affairs Nova Scotia
- Difficult to read letter from George Smith of Pictou to the Deputy Secretary for Indian Affairs in Nova Scotia. The letter discusses the distribution of relief to the Indians in Pictou County, and seems to suggest that the amount of goods sent was not enough to alleviate the poverty of many of the local Mi'kmaq. While the letter is difficult to read, George Smith was the local contact for the distribution of goods from the Nova Scotia Government. His name appears on financial records as the one who received and distributed the goods (blankets, coats, etc.) to the Mi'kmaq at Pictou., “Pictou, 18th January 1837 Thomas M. [Mclean?], Esq. [Deputy Secretary] Sir, I have to acknowledge receipt of yours of the 28th ultimo, [] in the [] between [] Mr. Patterson which is at [] deeded [] [] [] the former/province was you alluded of this in Mr. Patterson’s [] hire. The seven pounds you send by your [] [] have been given our [sparingly] to the [] of His Excellency, the Lieutenant Governor, in blankets for each of the [] [] of his Indians and as far as the [] want each have been permitted in as equitable a manner I [] [] on them, and you have assigned a [] [] [pg. 2] Of the contribution of His Excellency’s donation, which the few Indians are very thankful. [][] There are yet a good many in need. Sir, [] [] George Smith, The letter is hard to decipher, so square brackets are used to show missing words, and also to suggest possible wording., Public Archives of Nova Scotia, RG1, Vol. 431 (Indian Commissioner Series), file 35.
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- 1837- Petition from Matthew Sapier on Behalf of his Indian Brethren
- Petition written by Matthew Sapier, representing several other Mi'kmaq, asking for relief to be given to the Mi'kmaq of Pictou County. This letter also mentions that relief had been granted by the petition written by him in 1836., “Pictou, 14th January 1837 To His Excellency Sir Colin Campbell Bant[?]: Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief in and over His Majesty’s Province of Nova Scotia and its Dependencies etc. etc. etc. The Memorial of Maltel Sapier Chief, and other Indians Most Humbly shewith: That your Memorialists are native Aborigines of the British Colonial Province of Nova Scotia, over which Your Excellency at present resides, and reside in the County of Pictou, the place of their nativity. Your Memorialists beg leave to express their gratified acknowledgements, for the munificent assistance afforded to them by your Excellency last year, and beg leave to solicit the benevolent hand of your Excellency would be stretched out to them, in again administering to their necessities and wants. There are thirty-seven of us, who are almost destitute of all the necessaries of life, especially of blankets and coats, and good muskets and ammunition, and as the crops failed much last season in this quarter, particularly the potatoe [sic] crop, your Memorialists suffer much privation in provisions. Your memorialists therefore most humbly and most earnestly supplicate that your Excellency will be pleased to consider and commiserate their destitute condition, and the privations they experience and order them to receive such supplies as your excellency may, in your benevolence, think proper. And your Memorialists as in duty bound will ever pray etc. etc. Maltel Sapier [x] his mark For himself and his other Indian brethren These may certify that the Bearer of this Memorial is a sober, temperate and honest Indian, and that the Indians in this quarter, are much in want of the supplies they pray for. R. Lowden, J.P. [Justice of the Peace] [Illegible] Edmond Dayle, J.P. Rev. Fraser John [], J.P. James Carmichael Geo. [Wallen], J.P. Jas. Fraser, J.P. M. Ross (Truro), Public Archives of Nova Scotia, Vol. 431 (Indian Commissioner Series), File 32.
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- 1842- Letter from Sir Joseph Howe to James Dawson about Reserve in Pictou County
- Joseph Howe, Indian Commissioner for Nova Scotia, was unable to attend Pictou to survey Mi'kmaq reserves. In his absence, he asked James Dawson (Pictou Merchant, ship-owner, and proprietor of a book store) to secure a piece of land that could be obtained for a reserve. This letter appears to be part of a larger correspondence between Howe and Dawson pertaining to Mi'kmaq land and education in Pictou., Halifax, May 6 1842 To James Dawson, Pictou, NS. My Dear Sir, In reference to your letter of the 26th January and to our conversation of a more recent date. I have taken the liberty to ask your assistance in carrying out, among the Indians in your neighbourhood, to explain of the Act of last session. I was in hopes that I should have been able to get to Pictou in all two months, but as I may be disappointed, would be much obliged by your representing me, and doing with the Pictou Indians whatever your own judgement dictates concerning your attention within the scope of the Act, and having in mind that a permanent settlement and education of these people, not one [] relief, are the primary objects. Your first cause will be to ascertain the nature of the title of the lands of which you spoke to me, and to report such means of property [] title should their possession not be, as I suspect it is, a sufficient [] to the claims of others. If any of them have made [] [] disposed to make clearings, please supply him with picks and hoes, and when the ground [pg.2] Is prepared, give them as much seed as will plant what they have already. With respect to education, endeavour to obtain the Rev. Mr. O’Riley’s sanction and aid to the establishment of a Sunday School for Children and Adults, and if possible, get a boy or two to some day school in Pictou. From a locality which you have always manifested in the County about of the Indians, I need not trouble you with many instructions – your own benevolent disposition and sound judgement will be your best guides. With Best Regards to [] [] Yours Truly, [Joseph Howe], Public Archives of Nova Scotia, Indian Commissioner Series, Vol. 432, File 57.
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- 1842- Series of Letters between James Dawson of Pictou and Indian Commissioner Joseph Howe concerning Mi'kmaq land in Pictou Co.
- This series of letters contains various discussions about the need for reserved land for the Mi'kmaq of Pictou County. Dawson, a local merchant, acts on behalf of Howe as Indian Commissioner as Howe was unable to travel to the region. Dawson and Howe discussed potential settlements, issues with title, health, education, and the general goal of assimilation. Places considered as suitable tracts of land include a 1000 acre plot of land at the mouth of Merigomish River. Fisher's Grant is listed as a place that the Mi'kmaq would not give up, even if the title belonged to settlers. Dawson mentioned the the Mi'kmaq in the area were unable to get a foothold as they did not hold any land and were constantly being forced out of their lands by settlers who claimed they were trespassing on their land. Without deeded land, the Mi'kmaq struggled to hunt, fish, grow crops, or maintain stocks of firewood, and were thus more reliant on the government for aid and relief. However, Dawson also pointed out that the Mi'kmaq provided important commodities to local towns, and also sold fresh fish for both local and market consumption. The letters end abruptly, without any reserves having been surveyed., “Pictou Indians- From Mr. Dawson, Pictou Hon. Joseph Howe Pictou, 26 JanY, 1842 Dear Sir, I observe that something is to be submitted to the Legislature on my favorite subject the “civilization of the Indians.” I have given the subject some attention for more than 20 years, and have made myself quite familiar with the tribe, and have long and deeply regretted that I could do little for them. I may refer you to a communication I sent you last year and also to several others which were sent to Mr. Burnett in 1838 on the subject – if that gentlemen be still in Halifax he will show you them. But there are several matters in these letters I did not advert to, and yet they are of paramount importance. I shall first name one or two. The altered circumstances of the Indians have produced, already, some important changes in their habits, some for the better, others for the worse, the former should be acted on and encouraged. Necessity has forced on them the [pg.2] Manufacture of a variety of useful and ornamental articles for their subsistence, such as baskets, quill boxes, brooms, axe handles, hand pulls, etc. etc. these articles are necessary for the settlers, but the Indians at present hawk them about the towns and villages and too frequently get paid for them in spirits – to prevent this and to encourage their industry the commissioner should keep a sort of Indian bazaar where he would purchase all their wares at a liberal price, and paying them in cloths, provisions, etc. at the lowest possible rate. The Commissioner should also be the almoner of the Royal Bounty, to induce them to look to that persons as a sort of Father under their Royal Mistress. As the Catholic Clergy have it in their power to render all attempts abortive, the strongest assurance would require to be given them that their Religion would in no case be interfered with – and in fact the influence that these men possess over them might be turned to good account in many ways. I would take every possible measure to dissuade from pauperism and encourage them in supporting themselves. The boys should be taught [pg.3] to read and write in English – the use of the spade, hoe, and axe, beside the handicrafts their fathers already know. The girls should be taught to sew, spin, and knit etc. and some wool should annually be furnished to them in exchange for a part of their wares for this purpose, and all these things should be understood to be but preliminary to their settling on a piece of land and ultimately adopting regular civilized habits, while in the mean time their comfort will be secured. I am yours truly, Jas. Dawson From Mr. Dawson Pictou, 19th May, 1842 Hone. Jos. Howe Dear Sir Yours of the 6th inst. Was duly received, and would have been replied to before this had it not been that I was in expectation of an interview with Rev. W. O’Reilly in which I have been disappointed – he has been at Merigomish all this month. I have wrote him and expect to see him soon. In the mean time I have got the enclosed memorandum from the Record office [pg. 4] Rergarding the lands on which the Indians reside at the mouth of this Harbour – by which you will see the exceeding loose nature of the title to their lands notwithstanding the number of hands it has passed through – the Indians all the time holding adverse possession. The lands in question were a part of the Philadelphia Grant made to the officers of the 82nd Regiment at the close of the American Revolutionary War, and there is little doubt that Dr. McLean of that Regiment was allowed by the other grantees to hold that portion of his share, altho [sic] his name, as W. Crerar says, does not appear in the Grant. But no one claiming it has ever had anything like possession of it until a few years ago, when it began to be sold in small lots by the late Rev. McKenzie – and the parties in doing so have had to drive the Indians from their clearing where they grow potatoes etc. The Indians are passionately fond of this lot, as it affords them great facilities for the fishery, but I am afraid [Pg. 5] There is no way of gratifying them in regards to it, as there are now some settlers on it, and a high price would be demanded. The next place to which they are fondly attached is a small island in the harbour of Merigomish (about 200 acres) on which they have a chapple [sic] and burying ground – this place is included in Governor Wentworth’s Grant, and the Indians are permitted to occupy it merely by the courtesy of the heirs. I have asked Mr. Crerar if there be any Indian Reserves in the County but am sorry to say there are none – they have been driven from one place to another till they have not a foothold left they can call their own. Their very burying grounds have in some instances been dececrated by the plough – but I trust the time has arrived when they will get some compensation for their wrongs. So soon as I can get an interview with Mr. O’Reilly I intend to go with him to the camp and have a talk with the whole tribe, and I will then be able to ascertain what chance there is of [pg. 6] Carrying into effect the various objects you point out in yours of the 6th Inst. 23rd May I have this moment got a letter from the Preist who promised to do all in his power to make the Indians meet your views – he is to be here in Friday next and will accompany me to the Camp. After holding a meeting with the Indians I will do myself the pleasure of advising you of the result. I am yours respectfully, Jas. Dawson Abstract of Title, referred to in foregoing letter: Transfer of Moodies Lot so called – estimated at 500 acres. 1. Mortgage, Donald McLean to Mich. Wallace dated 14th June 1787. Registered 26th Sept 1791. See Liber 1- Folio 15 2. Assignment of Mortgage Michael Wallace to Messr. Geo. And Jas. Abel of London. [pg.7] Dated 17 August 1798.- Registered 1st July 1799. See Liber 1 Folio 298 3. Deed James Abel to Edward Mortimer dated 10th July 1803. Registered 26th FebY 1806. See Liber 2 Folio 400 4. Release Edward Mortimer to John Cameron. Dated 6th May 1807. Registered 1st May 1808. See Liber 3 Folio 120 5. Deed John Cameron to Geo. Robertson W. Forsythe and others. Dated 20th May 1810, Registered 28th May 1810. See Liber 3 Folio 332. 6. Deed – the Hon. B. Haliburton to Thos. Moodie. Dated 1st Sept. 1815, Registered 28th July 1816. See Liber 5 Folio 325. 7. Mortgage Thos. Moodie to Sir Charles Twining. Dated 14th May 1825 Registered 30th May 1825. See Liber 10 Folio 237. Discharged see Liber 21 Folio 467. 8. Assigned of mortgage to Charles Twining to Archibald McDonald. Dated 1st JanY 1832, Registered 12th AugT 1834. See Liber 17 Folio 39. Discharged See Liber 21 – Folio 447. 9. Assignment of Mort. Archibald McDonald to Wm. Mathieson dated 21st July 1834, Registered 12th Aug. 1834. See Liber 17 Folio 39. Discharged See Liber 21 Folio 467. 10. Deed the Adm. And Adm. Of Thos. Moodie to Kenneth J. McKenzie dated 1st May 1836 Registered 19th November 1835. See Liber 17 Folio 470. 11. Deed Ken. J. McKenzie 2/6 acres to King William the Fourth – dated 19th Nov 1835 Registered 19th Nov. 1835. See Liber 17 Folio 472. 12. Release of Mast. Wm. Mathieson to Ken. J. McKenzie, Dated 16th May 1838, Registered 27th Sep. 1838. See Liber 21 Folio 467. 13. Deed Ken. J. McKenzie to Charles and Jas. Donahue [pg. 8] dated 18th Augt. 1838. Registered 27th Sept. 1838. See Liber 21 Folio 467. 14. Deed K.J. McKenzie 110 acres to Geo. Foster and Wm. McKay, entered in Register’s office. Pictou 12th May 1842 Mr. James Dawson, Sir, The above I believe is all the information that can be gathered from the Records relating to the different transfers of what is called Moodies Lot, how Mr. McLean came to possession the records are silent and his name is not mentioned in the Original grant to the late 84th [sic] Regiment though I believe he was the doctor of that Regiment. Peter Crerar Register [pg. 9] From Mr. Dawson, Pictou Pictou 25th June, 1842 Hon. Jos. Howe, Dear Sir, After waiting some time until it was convenient for the Priest to make an appointment with me to visit the Indians at Merigomish Island, it was at length done, but just at that time Rev. Mr. Lauchlan came along unexpectedly and took Mr. O’Reilly with him to P.E. Island to see the Bishop there. As the time of planting would admit of no longer delay, I had therefore to go to Merigomish Island alone on the 1st June, when I was again doomed to disappointment in finding that all the Indians except one intelligent old fellow (Jno. Lapier) and a few females chad left that morning for different destinations to pursue the herring and cod fishery. I took with me a Mr. Jno. McDonald who lives in that neighbourhood and is much in the confidence of the Indians and we explained to Lapier the views of the government in regard to his tribe. He laid aside his hoe – for he was employed [pg. 10] Planting potatoes, assembled the females, and sat down and listened to us with great attention, and at the conclusion he expressed his hearty concurrence in the propriety of these benevolent intentions, but he as well as the females doubted the expediency and practicability of some of the details – for example they disapproved of any of their children being educated in the white man’s school- because, when so educated it would break off all the natural ties of affection and association between them and their tribe, and mutual dislike and contempt would be the result. As we could not get the better of this objection, we proposed that the females and children should stay a few of the summer months on the Island, and a teacher would be got to come over so many hours each day and teach them all in the chapple [sic] and at the same time give the young men some instruction in agricultural pursuits. This Lapier approved of and promised to speak favourably of the whole plan to the rest of the tribe when he saw them, and I should like to hear your views on this part of the subject. Indian Island [Pg. 11] As it is called, is a beautifully romantic and exceedingly fertile spot, but is not nearly so large as I was previously inclined to believe. I do no think it contains more than 50 acres – the Indians have a neat little chapple [sic] on it. A few of them have late years planted some potatoes on it, and we foiund that at the time we were there, John Lapier and several others had in their cellars from 15 to 30 bushels of potatoes each. Lapier promised to assist McDonald in persuading the other Indians to plant this year, and I gave McDonald instructions to provide some seed and hoes for those who had none, and who would make a proper use of them- this I believe he has faithfully attended to. We noticed one bad defect in their system of farming – after a potato crop they sow nothing on the spot, the consequence is that it becomes a bed of wild weeds and is consigned for a long series of years to sterility – I therefore furnished Lapier with a little wheat and grass seed to put on his next year’s potato ground, with which he seemed quite delighted – I have [pg. 12] Learned a most pleasing trait in Lapier’s character – he had that morning given a widow squaw a present of 5 bushels of potatoes out of his little stock to plant for herself and children, and she was busily occupied in clearing away a small spot of ground for them and waiting till Lapier had done with the hoe (that being the only one in the camp). I thought so highly of this generous deed in a savage that I ordered McDonald to present him in return with a ¼ cask of flour, which he has since done. Upon the whole I was not a little gratified with my visit, and I do not despair of something being got done for our Indians – altho [sic] the Priest has unfortunately come to the conclusion that their civilization is a helpless task. Merigomish Island is too small ror any purpose, except giving them introductory lessons in agriculture for which it is well adapted – other lands would require to be procured from them as they could be induced to settle them. I asked Lapier what claim they had to the Island, and he said that he and 3 others whom [pg. 13] He named held it by deed – either from Governor Wentworth or his representatives. He said their deed had been given about 13 years ago to the late H. Denoon Esq. to be recorded but that he had never been able either to get back the deed or to know whether It was on record. I had some doubts as to the accuracy of this statement, but McDonald removed them by assuring me that he was one of the subscribing witnesses to the deed. I promised to Lapier that I would endeavour to recover this document and have it recorded for him – but I am sorry to say that I have been unsuccessful. Mr. Crerar has examined the records and says it is not on record and that he can discover nothing of it among the old deeds left by the late recorder – this being the case what is to be done in regard to it? The Indians here have applied themselves this year with unusual assiduity ad success to the fishery and during the last two months have amply supplied the town and the shipping with fresh fish, and I think muse have realized some money by it. I am happy to add that fewer in- [pg. 14] Stances of desperation have occurred among them than usual. I hope you will be able to pay an early visit to this quarter, and you will please advise me of the time before you come, that I may arrange for getting a good meeting of the tribe for you – in the mean time I would like to know your opinion of this plan of introducing them on the Island, and whether it would be advisable to make an experiment this year. I am yours truly, Jas. Dawson. From Mr. Dawson Pictou 29th Sept 1842 Hon. Jos. Howe Dear Sir, I am without a reply to the communications sent you. The object of writing you at present is this – Rev. Mr. O’Reilly called on me the other day, wishing to know whether the terms of the present Indian Grant permitted you to apply any part to medical aid, the reason why he wishes to know this is, that several of the tribe here, are as he states labouring at the present under dangerous diseases, and the overseers [pg. 15] of Poor refuse them any aid. He wishes if you can allow a few pounds for the purpose, that you would name D. McMillan of this place as their medical attendant – please let me hear from you in course of Post, and oblige yours truly, Jas. Dawson Answer to foregoing Halifax Oct 1 1842 My Dear Sir I thought I had written you some time after the receipt of your letter, giving you a carte blanche to do what seemed right in your eyes with the Indians until I could get East. If I did not ,or if you did not receive that letter, be kind enough to take this authority. The act contemplates no expenditure for medical attendance, and in general the Indians are better doctors than the whites – besides if one Doctor is put upon the Indian Civil list another muse be, and from the bills sent in for transient pauper cases to the House, the cost would be enormous. A few pounds are not of much consequence in an extreme case, but be sure to have some clear bargain and reasonable limit. Yours Truly J. Howe [pg. 16] From Mr. Dawson Pictou 30th Nov. 1842 Hon. J. Howe Dear Sir I do not know whether the Indians may reasonably expect anything this year in the shape of Royal Bounty – but those who reside here never had more need of it. The winter has set in with unusual scarcity and notwithstanding the generosity of the inhabitants to them, there is a great deal of destitution among them, particularly for clothing. If anything of this sort be get sent them from Head Quarters, it should be done without delay, as there are many invalids among them just now from age, blindness, and other infirmities, who cannot leave the camp to shift for themselves. There are about 40 or 42 families (about 130 individuals) belonging to this County at present- and if anything be sent them, it is necessary that every one get something, this was not the case last year, and there was much dissatisfaction in consequence – if you send to me I shall take pleasure in endeavouring to please them all. [pg. 17] There must really be something done next year in the way of getting the Pictou Indians some land either by purchase or otherwise, I mentioned to you before that they had not a foot reserved in this county that they could call their own. Until this be done they will not believe that government intends on doing them any good and they will not fall in with you measures. I have no hesitation in saying this much, because I have I from the mouths of their own chief men, and also their Priest who is always supposed to be in their confidence. I shall very soon send you an account of the few dollars I have expended for them – I say few because I did not see any way I could do them much good this year by expending money on them. I did not succeed in getting any of their young people instruction, but I think in another year I might get some benefit extended to them in this way. I am yours very truly, Jas. Dawson [pg. 18] Answer to the Foregoing 5th Dec 1842 My Dear Sir I was in hopes to have been able to have got East this summer, but it was with a good deal of difficulty that I made out to get around the Western Counties. Early in the spring I hope to visit the Indians in your county. In the meantime, I have directed Mr. [] to send you a few blankets and coats to be given to the aged and infirm, or poor families only. I wish you would let me know whether there are any crown lands in situations that would be suitable for them, because if there are than there would be no difficulty in getting a grant or reserve of 500 or 1000 acres. Jos. Howe From Mr. Dawson Pictou, 8th Dec. 1842 Hon Joseph Howe I duly received yous of 5th Inst. And a few hours after the blankets had arrived, which [pg. 19] I shall take care to distribute as you direct – they will not be sufficient to supply all the destitute among them, but I have got two young ladies to volunteer their services to solicit some old clothes from the inhabitants, and have no doubt but by these means united I will get them tolerably well supplied for the present. Since my last communication I have found out that a new source of misery has beset the poor Indians this cold winter. Here wood is getting very scarce and consequently valuable along the shores, and I was told the poor creatures had been driven from place to place with their camps, having been refused liberty to cut wood by the inhabitants about Fisher’s Grant, Boat Harbour, etc. On due enquiry into these reports I found them verified by respectable people, and therefore I have ventured to procure them the necessary supply this winter by promising to pay 4 or 5 dollars, this is but one of the consequences of no land being reserved near the shores for them. I have waited on Mr. Crerar the [Pg. 20] Deputy Surveyor, and examined all his plans which show government land in this county, and I see none ungranted that would suit the Indians so well as a spot in the Eastern division of the County at the head waters of Barney’s River, where 1000 acres at least should be granted for their use, to include the whole of a lake called “Brown Lake”, on the McKay’s map, and also lots no. 12, 16, 17, 18 to the north and N. West of said lake, as shown on Mr. Crerar’s plan, of which he says there is a copy in the S. General’s Office. Mr. Crerar agrees with me in thinking that this is the most eligible site for them in the County (not granted) for a winter residence as the Lake is well stocked with fine trout and its shores covered with good hard wood – the land around he says is good and what is of consequence to their moose, cariboo, and other game are yet plentiful in that quarter. But besides a grant of this land it will be of indispensable necessity to procure by purchase on the shores about Fisher’s Grant – their favorite resort – 50 [pg. 21] Or 100 acres which will serve as a summer residence while they pursue shore fishery and vend their various domestic manufactures- this lot would also serve for training them to farming occupations to prepare them for permanent residence on their grant. I intend to get a petition to the legislature signed by all the respectable inhabitants – setting forth their destitute situation and praying aid to procuring the necessary land for them in summer, this will help to strengthen your hand in procuring a liberal grant for the service next year. I will be happy to see you here next spring – which I hope will be as early as you can find it convenient. I am yours respectfully Jas. Dawson To John Whidden, Esq. Sir The Pictou Indians are without any land none having been reserved for them in that county. Thought numerous they have no property to improve [pg. 22] and are often distressed [] for fuel. Mr. Dawson, who has kindly interested himself in their welfare, at my request, and Mr. Crerar the deputy surveyor recommended that 1000 acres should be reserved for them at the head waters of Barney’s River, to include the whole of the lake called Brown Lake, and on McKay’s map, and also lots nos. 12, 16, 17, 18 to the north and north-west of said lake, as shown on Mr. Crerar’s plan. Will you be kind enough to bring the subject to the notice of his Excellency the Lieutenant Governor, with a view to the reservation and survey to the tract named, at as early a period as possible? I have the honor to be, Your obedt. Servt. Joseph Howe [pg. 23 – unconnected letter] [pg.24] From Mr. A. J. Harris Pictou 18th April 1842 Hon. Joseph Howe Dear Sir A few weeks ago I had a few lines from Hon. Mr. Uniacke mentioning that a petition which I had forwarded him for presentation to the House from the Indians praying implements to enable them to prosecute their agricultural labours had been referred by the House to the Indian Commissioner who would supply their wants from the Provincial Grant. As the season draws near when these tools will be needed I thought it my duty to advise you upon the subject. You will observe that the petition seeks picks, shovels, spades, axes, and hoes, now any implements further than the different kinds recited in the petition would I believe be unnecessary for the present as they do not use horses or oxen. But the difficulty it appears to me will be [pg.25] In obtaining information as to how many of the articles will be required for distribution and who ought to get them as it would be a pity that those of them who are unsteady and indolent and who would immediately dispose of their supply for liquor or something useless should not be distinguished to some extent from the deserving. Upon these points I confess myself wholly unable to give you information but if I might be permitted to suggest one that could, I would beg to direct you to either John Olding Esq., Merigomish, or Angus McDonald, Esq., Merigomish – they are both magistrates (the latter was appointed among the recent batch) and live near the Island on which the Indians are settled – perhaps Mr. McDonald would be the better of the two, as he lives the nearer to the Island, but either of them would be competent for the purpose. If you are unsuccessful in accomplishing anything for the amelioration of these poor children of the forest you will at least [pg.26] have these pleasing reflections which spring from the performance of worthy actions. Yours Respectfully Wm. J. Harris P.S. Any lands appropriated to the Indians must have the title so secured that they cannot alienate the lands. [Final pages discuss Indian reserve creation in Colchester County, near the boundary of Pictou County], These letters appear to be compiled and copied, perhaps by Joseph Howe's secretary., Public Archives of Nova Scotia, Indian Commissioner Series, Vol. 432, file 57.
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- 1843- Report on Indian Affairs - Nova Scotia
- Joseph Howe was Nova Scotia's first Indian Commissioner, and this was his report on the state of affairs for the Mi'kmaq in Nova Scotia. The Province was trying to limit the amount of money it spent on relief for the Mi'kmaq each year, and they appointed Howe to prepare a report on how best to accomplish their goals of having a self-sustaining Indian population in the province. The report touches on many important topics, such as assimilation plans, housing, reserves, education, and resource availability., “The Indian Statistics collected in 1838, exhibit the number of the Micmacs then in the province as follows: County of Halifax…265 souls; Island of Cape Breton…520 souls; Western District, including Annapolis, Digby, Yarmouth, Shelburne, Queen’s, and Lunenburg…415; Pictou…100; King’s…35; County of Sydney…90; Total…1425 Assuming this table to have been tolerably accurate in 1838, the rapidity with which these people had decreased, up to that time, may be judged from the fact that in 1798, forty years before, there were 800 in the County of Pictou alone….It is impossible, however, to estimate the ratio of decrease by the numbers in any particular county or locality, because almost every family which has not a framed house moves two or three times a year, and such Counties as King’s or Pictou, where the population is rapidly increasing, the forest disappearing before the axe, and mills either damming, or in course of erection upon, every stream, are very likely to be deserted for others, where, from the indifference of the soil, the march of improvement is not so rapid. …In Yarmouth, Hants, Colchester, Pictou, and Guysborough, there are no reserves, and in some other places, such as Pomket, and in other parts of Cape Breton, it is to be feared that the quantity has been somewhat diminished by encroachment of the whites. …Supplies [Seed, Implements, Cattle] to Pictou Indians…4 [pounds] 14 [Shillings] 4 [pence]”, As the report is typed and easily read, only the sections pertaining to Pictou and the region were transcribed so they would appear in database searches., Joseph Howe, Indian Commissioner,"Report on Indian Affairs," Public Archives of Nova Scotia, Vol. 430 (Indian Commissioner Series), file 191.