Our History

Unveiling the Hidden History of the Kitchizibi: A Journey of Resilience and Survival

The true History of the Kitchi Zibi has been swept under the “fur” for too long. The mighty Ottawa River as many have come to know it as, was the highway our Ancestors used to live the Nomadic lifestyle our family has been living since time immemorial.  Our way of life was attacked in the 1800’s and as sad as it has been for the families of 115, our truth is that History continues to repeat itself.

Many of the Anishinaabe families along the Kitchi Zibi went into hiding as “French Canadians”. This was done to escape the threat brought towards First Nation & Metis people. The reason for this was to protect our children from having to attend the Residential Schools because colonial mindsets viewed being “indian” as taboo. Many Historical documents speak of the Civilized Intelligence Algonquin and Nippissing First Nations had whether we view it from an Indigenous Spiritual perspective or Historical Scientific Accuracy’s. Our Ancestors were highly Intelligent and Intuitive which allowed them and us to survive the Genocide that took place against our people and our Way of Life. Our Oral Tradition guides our steps back in History. Descendants of Petition 115 eventually settled in the far Northern Ontario Half-breed Community known as Barbers Bay (Modern Day Timmins Ontario), hiding under the fur who we really were. 

The information published on this site will help all descendants piece the “Puzzle” together and move forward in investing in our Truth and reconciling all differences, in hopes, once and for all. 

The Anishinaabe of the Kitchi Zibi First Nation was spearheaded under the protection of UNDRIP grounded in Petition 115. As we have been denied our existence by the current Government we will continue to advocate for our Inherent birthright as First Nations People. We will do so for as long as it takes to end the discrimination against our Nation and the families of Petition 115.

Historical Documents of Our Existence

The Report on the Indians of Canada- The 1844 Bagot Report was a pivotal document in Canadian History. Although this document was utilized to support the creation of the Residential School System, it also serves as Historical evidence of our existence. Whether that be through the Indians from Lake of Two Mountains and our documented Nomadic lifestyle, or the Chippewas & Algonquins or otherwise Anishinaabe in the Bedford Area. We encourage all to learn the truth about the Affairs on the Indians of Canada.

Download this PDF report.