Murdo Scribe facts for kids

Murdo Scribe (1920–1983) was a Swampy Cree author and educator. He was born in Norway House, Manitoba, Canada. Murdo Scribe was also a World War II veteran. He is remembered for recording traditional stories and legends. His most famous work is Murdo's Story, a children's picture book. This book is available in Cree, Ojibwe, and English.

Early Life and Career

Murdo Scribe was born in 1920. He grew up in Norway House, Manitoba. After serving in World War II, Murdo returned home. He continued his life in Manitoba. He worked as a trapper and a gardener. He was also a businessman and a band councillor. Murdo was known for being a wonderful storyteller.

Contributions to Education

In 1975, Murdo Scribe took on an important role. He helped lead the Traditional Individualized Education (TIE) Program. This program was part of Manitoba Education. It focused on Aboriginal education. Murdo's work helped to share Indigenous knowledge and traditions.

Throughout his life, Murdo wrote many books. These books were published by the Manitoba Ministry of Education. His writings shared important information about Indigenous life. Topics included how people used canoes to move goods. He also wrote about trapping and sledding. Many of his books were published in both English and Cree.

Murdo's Story

Murdo's Story: A Legend From Northern Manitoba is a special book. It was illustrated by Terry Gallagher. In 1985, Terry Gallagher won a major award for his artwork. This award was the Canada Council Children's Literature Prize. Today, it is known as the Governor General's Award for English-language children's illustration.

The book tells a fascinating legend. It explains how the constellation Fischer became the Big Dipper. It also shares how animals divided the seasons. This story helps readers understand traditional Indigenous beliefs.

Murdo Scribe Centre

The Murdo Scribe Centre opened on June 14, 2005. It is located in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The centre was named in honor of Murdo Scribe. This was to recognize his important work. He made great contributions to Aboriginal education in Manitoba. The centre now houses the Aboriginal Education Directorate. This is part of Higher education in Manitoba.

Published Works

Murdo Scribe wrote several books. These works share insights into northern life.

• Canoe Freighting in the North (1979?): This short book describes how canoes were used to move goods in Norway House. It covers the 1920s and 1930s.
• Life on the Trapline (1979?): In this book, Scribe shares memories of going on the trapline. He went with his uncle in 1941 and 1942.
• Trail Blazers of the North (1979?): This work talks about life in Norway House. It covers the years from the 1930s to the 1970s.
• Murdo's Memoirs: The Early Days in Northern Manitoba (1983): This book combines three of his earlier works. It includes Trail Blazers of the North, Life on the Trapline, and Canoe Freighting in the North.
• More Than A Marathon (c1985): This is a video recording. It tells the story of Amos Colon. He was a sled-dog runner. He delivered mail and supplies to distant communities. His grandson tells the story.
• Murdo's Story: A Legend From Northern Manitoba (1985): This is the children's picture book. It explains how Fischer became a constellation. It also tells how animals divided the seasons.