Moostoos facts for kids
Moostoos (meaning "The Buffalo", also spelled Mostos; c. 1850 – November 19, 1918), also known as Louis Willier, was an important leader of the Sucker Creek First Nation. He worked as a trapper and fisherman. Later, he became a Chief and Headman for his community. Moostoos played a key role in the Treaty 8 negotiations. He also worked hard to make sure the treaty promises were kept.
Moostoos's Life Story
Early Life and Family
Moostoos was born around 1850. His birthplace was near the western end of Lesser Slave Lake. He was the oldest of ten children. His parents were Masinigoneb and Marie Kowikkiu. On November 7, 1892, Moostoos married Niyaniskipimuttew, also known as Nanette Auger. They had two sons and also adopted a daughter. Moostoos passed away on November 19, 1918. He died in the Sucker Creek Indian Reserve during the 1918 influenza pandemic.
Working for Treaty 8
Moostoos was a key speaker during the Treaty 8 negotiations. These important talks happened from June 20 to 22, 1899. They took place at Willow Point, on Lesser Slave Lake. Moostoos and his younger brother, Kinosew (Kinoosayo), spoke for the Cree people.
Moostoos was known for his calm and friendly way of negotiating. He strongly believed in the need for peace. He wanted Indigenous peoples and settlers to be friends. Some people think his connection to the Roman Catholic Church and Father Albert Lacombe helped shape his peaceful approach. Father Lacombe was also present during these discussions.
Moostoos shared important thoughts during the negotiations. He spoke about new settlers coming into their lands. He said, "Our country is getting broken up, I see the white man coming in, and I want to be friends. I see what he does, but it is best that we should be friends." He also asked about education for Indigenous children. He wanted to know if the government would listen to their opinions about teachers.
A reporter for the Edmonton Bulletin newspaper praised Moostoos's speaking skills. The reporter said Moostoos was known as the best speaker among his people.
After the Treaty Talks
After the Treaty 8 negotiations, it took a long time for the promises to be put into action. Moostoos spent time working to make sure the treaty was followed. In 1900, Moostoos and other Cree leaders asked for land. They wanted a reserve east of the Driftpile River on Lesser Slave Lake.
In 1910, reserve land was finally given. However, the land was not all connected for the Cree communities. Separate reserves were created for the Driftpile First Nation and the Sucker Creek First Nation. After this, Moostoos served as the main leader of the Sucker Creek Band until he passed away. He was also known as a 'Medicine man'. He practiced traditional Indigenous healing methods.
