Poundmaker's to open shop near famous battle site

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Poundmaker's reserve near North Battleford, Sask. has a history local residents are very proud of. The reserve is named after Chief Poundmaker, a great leader, mostly known for his peaceful tactics, but he never opposed war if he felt his people were threatened.

In 1885 his people were threatened when a huge force of men from Battleford set out to attack his camp near Outlook, Sask.

Poundmaker's warriors surrounded and after killing some of Col. Otter's troops, Otter retreated back to Battleford in disgrace.

Only chief Poundmaker's intervention saved Col. Otter's troops from receiving more causalities than what was recorded in history.

The grandfather of present day Chief Antoine fought in "the battle of Cutknife Hill".

"My grandfather was shot in the ear during the battle," Antoine said.

He said it's in the reserves intention to open a souvenir shop near the battle site to attract tourists.

Chief Poundmaker's remains are buried on top the hill over looking the battle site and the reserve named after him.

Antoine has been the chief of the 800 members for the last four years. He said he and his council are looking at economic growth for their members. "We have achieved some success towards are goal. We have a gas station and store that employs 6 people. And we're planning to build an extension onto the store as a service garage."

Antoine said the band is going through some internal problems, something him and his four council members hope to resolve in the near future.

"Many of the things we are trying to accomplish takes time. It's always a slow process such as trying to get land that was taken from us returned," said Antoine, only minutes before a community land title workshop was held, which was closed to the media.

He said the meeting was held to let members know "exactly where we're at right now on the band projects and programs.