Riel Connections

Hero or heretic? Riel lead a resistance, or rebellion against the Canadian Government, around Metis land claims. Having an Indigenous mother and European father, Riel was educated for twelve years under Jesuit Priests. He was quickly recognized for his scholarly and communicative abilities. There are varying perceptions of his actions. He was elected leader of two different provisional governments, one in 1870 and anther in 1885, both of which had Metis land claims and an attempt to keep power local, instead of allowing its centralization during the birth of our nation. He was eventually hung for treason, however he is recognized as a hero on the global stage, for his dedication to Metis and local rights. Go to http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/louis-riel/ for more information.

​ Whatever you think of him, he has ties to Camrose County. One of his council members, Pierre Poitras is buried in the St. Thomas Grave yard, near the original site of the Duhamel Settlement, located just off of highway 21, at 21137 Township Road 461. Please click on the close up photo of Pierre Poitra's name to hear Stan Trautman reflect on the Riel connection to one of the original settlements in the area, Duhamel, as well as Father Beillevaire, whose work and passion was foundational to the area!

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The close up photo above is linked to an article at www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca with more information on Louis Riel. Below is a picture of the rock uncovered when the road to St. Thomas Church was being constructed. Stan Trautman expands on this in the recollection linked to the monument photo below.

*Note: The Donalda Museum, located at 5001 Main Street Donalda, houses a plethora of Metis artifacts from the area! Go to http://donaldamuseum.com to find out more!