Riel House facts for kids
| Maison Riel | |
The Riel House
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| Location | 330 River Road Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2M 4A5 Canada |
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| Type | Historic House |
| Owner | Parks Canada |
Riel House is a special place in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. It's a National Historic Site that helps us remember Louis Riel. He was an important Métis leader and activist. The house also shows what daily life was like for Métis families in the Red River Settlement.
This historic house is located in the St. Vital area of Winnipeg. It was home to Louis Riel's mother, Julie Riel, and his brothers and their families starting in 1865. Louis Riel himself lived there from 1868 until 1870. After a significant historical event that led to his death in December 1885, his body rested in the house for two days. He was later buried in St. Boniface.
The Riel family owned the house until 1968. Then, the Winnipeg Historical Society bought it. Today, it is a museum that teaches visitors about this important part of Canadian history.
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What is Riel House?
Riel House is a historic home that has been carefully restored. It looks just like it did in 1886. The house is now a museum where you can learn about the life of Louis Riel and the Métis people. It helps us understand their culture and history.
Who was Louis Riel?
Louis Riel was a very important figure in Canadian history. He was a leader of the Métis people. The Métis are a unique Indigenous group with mixed European and Indigenous ancestry. Riel played a key role in protecting Métis rights and culture. He led the Red River Resistance in the late 1860s. This event helped shape the province of Manitoba.
The House's History
The house was built in the traditional Red River frame style. It became home to Louis Riel's mother, Julie Riel, in 1865. Louis Riel lived there with his family when he returned to the Red River area in 1868. This was during the time of the Red River Resistance. He stayed there until he went into exile in 1870.
Becoming a Museum
The house was recognized as a National Historic Site in 1976. This means it is a place of great historical importance to Canada. It was also named a Federal Heritage Building in 2000. This protects its historical design. The house was carefully restored to show how it looked in 1886. This helps visitors imagine life back then.
Who Manages Riel House?
Riel House is owned and managed by Parks Canada. Parks Canada looks after many important historical sites across the country. Since 2013, the Louis Riel Institute has helped with the museum's programs. The Louis Riel Institute works with the Manitoba Métis Federation. They help share the story of Louis Riel and the Métis people.
