History

Historically, Ojibway people were nomadic hunters travelling through territories defined by rivers, landscapes and neighbouring peoples gathering variable & scattered resources. By sharing their collective observations in a supportive social structure, they developed successful relationships with their environment. At the same time, they established a respect for the creation that supported them.

This relationship continues today as exemplified by Alderville First Nation’s commitment to the preservation of a rare habitat known as “The Black Oak Savanna”.

The Ojibway have been at Rice lake since about 1700. The Mississauga have been at Alnwick Township on the south side of Rice Lake since the 1830s when they came from the Bay of Quinte. The Haudenosaunee (Iroquoian) peoples inhabited this landscape up until the late 1600s when they were driven out by the Ojibway during a territorial dispute. They were settled around the shores of Rice Lake in villages which practised extensive agriculture. In fact, when the Ojibway first saw these villages practising land clearing through the use of fire, they gave the area the name Pemedashkotayang or, “Lake of the Burning Plains.”

It was this practice, which continues today, that helped provide conditions necessary for the preservation and maintenance of the savanna/prairie environment.

By the 1850s, European settlement and agricultural practices had essentially eliminated prairie and savanna. The continued presence of the Ojibway at the Alderville mission through this period of settlement resulted in the retention of the largest significant remnant. Presently the community is dedicated to the preservation and management of this savanna, as an integral part of the nation’s heritage.

From the abundant riches of the land and waters, the indigenous peoples derived their food, medicines, shelter and transportation. For this, they continue to give thanks to their Creator. In fostering the stewardship of the savanna/prairie, they honour these vital connections with all things.