Lecture on the History of Sam Steele in the Kootenays

Introduction

• Speakers: Nasuken Joe Pierre and Sean McPherson
• Host: Diane Teslak and co-pilot Dana Wesley
• Event's Subject: History of Sam Steele in the Kootenays
• Acknowledgment of Land: Traditional lands of the Tuna'ha and Chushuap people, and home of Métis communities

Speaker Introductions

• Joe Pierre: Chief of the Acom community, renowned storyteller
• Sean McPherson: PhD candidate at UBC, researcher of colonialism in the region

Acknowledgments and Community Background

• College of the Rockies: Recognized by its Tunaxa name, known as the place where two creeks meet
• Historical Context: Joseph’s Creek named after a Tunaxa chief
• Cranbrook’s Incorporation: Founded in 1905, named Cranbrook

Historical Insights by Joe Pierre

• Tanakha Creation Story: Importance of place names and historical storytelling in Tunaxa culture
• Impact of Colonization: Discussion of half of the Tanakha population lost through disease and other colonial impacts

Historical Insights by Sean McPherson

• Colonel James Baines Baker: Influence in founding Cranbrook
• Significance of Geography: Flatness ideal for railway, linked to Isidore's ranch
• Cranbrook Today: Known for its railway history and various nicknames

The Kootenai Uprising

• Background: Misleading historical term, actual events included RCMP intervention
• Narrative Reconstruction: Based on 300 archival letters involving figures like Sam Steele and John A. MacDonald

Misinterpretation of History

• Myth of Sam Steele: Often depicted as fair and just, historical evidence suggests otherwise
• Role of Steele and RCMP: Involved in forcing Indigenous communities onto reserves

Key Historical Figures

• Chief Isidore: Described as a key figure resisting colonial forces, rancher on the land turned into Cranbrook
• Influence of Settler Community: Petitions showing some settlers supported Isidore

Colonial Tactics

• Use of Force: RCMP and military tactics like artillery drills to intimidate Indigenous communities

Cultural and Historical Reconciliation

• Oral Histories: Importance of acknowledging Tanakha oral histories and storytelling
• Impact of Historical Narratives: How settler histories have overshadowed Indigenous experiences

Closing

• Acknowledgments: Gratitude towards community and elders for supporting historical truth-telling
• Sean’s Thesis: Encouragement to read his thesis for deeper understanding of the complexities in local history

Additional Notes

• Community Engagement: Call for reading Sean McPherson’s thesis as a valuable resource for understanding Cranbrook’s history
• Event Follow-Up: Recording to be available via YouTube link for attendees

Points to Remember

• Historical Context Matters: Understanding local history from multiple perspectives is crucial
• Colonization's Impact: Continued discussion on the real impacts of colonization
• Engaging with Oral Histories: Listening to and valuing Indigenous narratives as a means of truth and reconciliation