MICMACS OF PICTOU COUNTY, NEW GLASGOW, April 30, 1907. FRANK PEDLEY, Esq., Deputy Supt. General of Indian Affairs, Ottawa. SIR, - I have the honour to submit my annual report and statistical statement for the fiscal year ended March 31, 1907. Reserve. - The Indians of Pictou county hold two reserves. The larger reserve, at Fisher's Grant, contains 200 acres. The greater portion is under wood. The other reserve is an island near Merigomish. Population. - The present population of this agency is 170. This number includes a few Indians temporarily absent from the reserve. Health and Sanitation. - These Indians have, during the past year, enjoyed immunity from any general epidemic. Small-pox, which has been spreading in different sections of this county, spared the Micmac tribe. Steps have been taken to have the Indians vaccinated. I regret to record the recent death of the kindly physician of the Indians for many years past, Dr. John MacMillan, Pictou. Occupations. - The Indians are engaged in farming, fishing, coopering, basket-making, and some hire out as labourers. Buildings. - During recent years, helped by the department, the Indians have improved their dwellings, sufficiently large frame buildings taking the place of small unsanitary shanties, greatly to the advantage, health and comfort of the tenants. Stock. - Horses and a few cows are owned on the Fisher's Grant reserve. Farm Implements. - Two or three Indians possess all the needful farm implements, which do service for all the others. Education. - There is one school located on the Fisher's Grant reserve, doing satisfactory work and fairly well attended. Characteristics and Progress. - Most of these Indians are industrious; only a few make a comfortable living. They cannot obtain steady employment near the reserve. The land is not productive, the fishing is precarious, they lack the knowledge and equipment to till the soil or reap the harvest of the deep. The wood to be made into tubs, baskets and pick-handles is getting scarce and more remote. What outlook is there for the ambitious Indian? Their circumstances are not improving. Temperance and Morality. - They are as a rule, sober and virtuous, and fear God, who is to judge the living and the dead. I have, & co., J.D. MACLEOD, Indian Agent. NOVA SCOTIA,
