Remembering a piece of history

Posted on: J A McRae

Shannon LeClair
Times Reporter
 
Siksika Nation celebrated the 133rd commemoration of the signing of Treaty #7 at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park on Sept. 22. Members of the community and visitors spent a day at the park to take part in celebrating the historical event. 
The original treaty negotiations between the Blackfoot Confederacy and the Crown took place on Sept. 22, 1877 at Blackfoot Crossing. The treaty has been very important to Siksika. For the 100th commeration, in 1977, Prince Charles represented the Crown in a re-enactment of the 1877 signing ceremony. 
“The treaty and the language in the treaty…when we look at it today it’s kind of different because I guess the times back then, they were different but some of those treaty rights still stand today,” said Shane Breaker, Vice-President of Marketing & Public Relations for the historical park.
The original signing didn’t take place exactly where the park is located, but instead took place directly west of the historical park’s location. 
“That’s the reasoning behind the location is to overlook that whole area, and the signing itself took place west of the Bow River, within that area. So when people come they kind of get the big picture of the whole area and the imagery of Tipis in the valley…,” said Breaker. 
There were well over 100 people at the commemoration, keeping interpreters busy with questions and tours.  
Guests were able to enjoy watching the cross-country race, eating burgers or hotdogs from the BBQ, and they were able to watch a powwow dance competition that had close to 60 dancers participating. 
“A lot of community members wanted to come out and learn more about the treaty that they’re within,” said Breaker.
“I think the weather kind of maybe scared away a few people but it turned out nice in the afternoon.” 
People also were able to go through the interpretive centre and learn, even more about the Blackfoot culture. 
The Blackfoot Confederacy is comprised of the Siksika, Kainai, and Peigan Nations of Southern Alberta.