154 years of history: Lower Fort Garry marks Treaty 1 anniversary

The 154th anniversary of the signing of Treaty 1 in Manitoba was celebrated over the weekend. CTV's Daniel Timmerman shows you the sights and sound.

In history, we unite.

Parks Canada hosted Treaty No. 1 Commemoration Day on Sunday at Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site, offering free admission and a day filled with education, performances, demonstrations and food.

Treaty 1 was negotiated on August 3, 1871, between the Anishinaabe, Swampy Cree, and the Crown. It was the first treaty signed by the crown and indigenous people, paving a precedent that allowed Canada for settlement.

“It was negotiated right here in front of the white house, signed just outside,” said Sarah Antymis, interpretation coordinator for Lower Fort Garry.

“Treaty 1 incorporated land agreements, gifts, and treaty annuity payments. It incorporated a sharing of a treaty medallion.”

Antymis emphasized the treaty’s ongoing relevance.

“We are all affected by it. We are all treaty people. Everyone who is here in Manitoba right now is a treaty person, because Treaty No. 1 is one of the reasons why we, as Manitobans, can be here.”

Knowledge keeper Jamie Grasby echoed the message.

“I think it’s really important that people know their history, where they come from, and to know about the things – even if it is not directly your history,” Grasby said.

“It’s important to honour those memories and the history of what happened. To learn more – to know where we came from, so we know where we’re going.”

Grasby has participated in the knowledge-sharing series before.

“It’s been really great opportunity. I want to share with youth and children especially – so that they have the chance and feel welcomed.”