Weskarini Algonquin First Nation facts for kids

The Weskarini Algonquin First Nation is a group of indigenous peoples in Canada. They are also known by many other names, like Wàwàckeciriniwak, which means "people of the deer clan." Sometimes, people have confused them with the Petun people, but the Weskarini are a different group.

Their traditional home was in Quebec, on the north side of the Ottawa River. They lived along the Lievre River and the Rouge River. The Petite-Nation River is even named after them! The Weskarini were good traders. They traded with the Wyandot people in their area long ago, even before European settlers arrived.

Early Relations with the French

When French settlers first came to Canada, the Weskarini traded at the mouths of several rivers. These rivers included the St. Maurice, Dumoine, and Gatineau Rivers. At first, the Weskarini were allies with the French. Many Weskarini people and French settlers even married each other.

Conflicts and Moving Away

The Weskarini were also allies with the Arendahronon, a group of Huron people. These groups often spent winters together. Both the Weskarini and the Arendahronon were involved in conflicts with the Iroquois people.

Over time, many Weskarini moved to Trois-Rivières. They went there to seek help from the Jesuits, a religious group. The Jesuits offered protection, but only to those who became Catholic. In 1652, the Iroquois launched a major attack. The main group of Weskarini fled north from the Ottawa River. Sadly, many were attacked near their sacred Mont Tremblant mountain. This happened deep inside their traditional lands.

Sacred Places of the Weskarini

The Weskarini people have special places that are very important to them.

Manitonga Soutana: Mont Tremblant

This sacred mountain is known today as Mont Tremblant. Its traditional names are Manitou Ewitchi Saga, meaning "mountain of the great god," or Manitonga Soutana, meaning "mountain of the spirits." The Weskarini believe this mountain trembles when people make too many changes to nature.

Migizi Kiishkaabikaan: Oiseau Rock

This place is also called Oiseau Rock or Bird Rock. It is located in Oiseau Bay. This rock is covered with many ancient drawings called petroglyphs.

Weskarini Today

Today, many people who are descendants of the Weskarini are working hard. They want to learn more about the Algonquin language and their shared culture. Some contemporary Weskarini are concerned about new buildings being built on their sacred Manitonga Soutana. They also worry about damage to the land and water in their traditional territory. They are also concerned about others using and trademarking the Weskarini name without permission.