Indigenous Peoples - Saskatchewan
Please refer also to our separate Indigenous/Métis genealogy research guide for more detailed information on researching Indigenous ancestors.
First Nations, Inuit, Métis are collectively referred to as Indigenous peoples
An important note on bias and colonial records language in historical records:
Language in historical records reflects the culture of the times in which they were written. As such, you will see terms we would not use today such as “Indian”, “Native”, and racial slurs such as “Half-Breed”, used for Indigenous peoples, “Racial Origins” used for heritage, and “white” for Caucasian people. While we strive to develop new relationships with Indigenous peoples based on recognition of their rights, respect, and cooperation, family historians will need to look for and use these types of historical terms when searching historical records.
Census Records
Census records may be a good starting point as “racial origins” are often noted on the census, as well as household members, place of birth and birthdates. Determining the geographical location could also lead you to a band name.
Our Family History department owns microfilm number T-6554 covering the 1901 Native census returns for several provinces, including Saskatchewan. The Indian Agencies enumerated on this microfilm include: Touchwood Agency (Wishart, Fishing Lake, Nut Lake); Moose Mountain Agency (Percy, Carlisle); Crooked Lake Agency (Broadview).
See page 7-1 of Canadian Family History Resources: A Guide to the Materials Held at Cloverdale Library for more information on how to search census records for First Nations information.
Online
Native American Tribes of Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre
Search the library catalogue under subject: INDIGENOUS PEOPLES – PRAIRIE PROVINCES or INDIGENOUS PEOPLES -SASKATCHEWAN. Following are examples of books you will find in our collection:
Ward, Donald B. 1995. The People: A Historical Guide to the First Nations of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Saskatoon, SK, Fifth House. Library call number – GEN 971.200497 WAR 1995
Walser, W.A. A World we have lost. 2016. Markham, Ontario: Fifth House Library call number -- GEN 971.2401 WAI 2016
Thornton, Mildred V. 2000. Buffalo People: Portraits of a Vanishing Nation. Delta, BC, Hancock House. Library call number – GEN 971.200497 THO 2000
Morin, Gail. Company Men. [A series of over 30 volumes of genealogies of men who worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company, many of whom married indigenous women.] Library call number: GEN 929.37127 MOR 2017