Communities commemorate anniversary of treaty signing

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The members of Little Pine and Lucky Man First Nations gathered together earlier this summer to mark the passing of 125 years since Chief Minahikosis (Little Pine) and Chief Papewas (Lucky Man) signed an adhesion to Treaty 6.

While other leaders signed the treaty with the crown in 1876 and 1877, Minahikosis and Papewas refused to sign. Then, in 1879, the buffalo scarce and their people short of food, they too joined the treaty.

To mark the 125th anniversary of that historic signing, and to share that history with younger generations, Little Pine hosted a commemoration from July 11 to 13, drawing people from across Canada and the United States to the event.

The weekend featured a powwow, with more than 600 dancers taking part. A number of First Nation veterans who served in the Second World War, the Korean and Vietnam wars and during the conflict in Bosnia were in attendance, and were honoured during the grand entry on Sunday.

A Li'l Warrior and Princess pageant were also held, with Aeydon Sokwaypnace-Bull being named Li'l Warrior, Gracie Bonaise being chosen as Tiny Tot Princess, Shaniah Nighttraveller named Junior Princess and Hope Caron winning the title of Senior Princess.

A trail ride was also held as part of the commemorations, with 30 riders, 40 ghost riders and two wagon drivers taking part. Soccer games were also held throughout the weekend.