Image: Photograph of Elder Willie Wilson being interviewed by Shishigo Gijig in the Rainy River First Nations Roundhouse located at the Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung Historical Centre in Stratton, ON. Christina Pasqua, 2018.
ONE DIARY, MANY STORIES:
DIGITAL STORYTELLING
Du Vernet’s diary tells many stories about the people and places of the Rainy River, filtered through his missionary interests. The Ojibwe have long had their own stories of the river, and here we share videos from storytellers we have met on our visits to Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung. Art Hunter, our host on the river, told us how Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung is meaningful for him and helps him remember his people’s history. This is but one of many stories we continue to share on this page.
How the Roundhouse Came to Be
with Willie Wilson and Shishigo Gijig
June 2018
Video Description:
Elder Willie Wilson of Rainy River First Nations sits with Shishigo Gijig at the center of the Roundhouse at the Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung Historical Centre, to share his story about how the Roundhouse is connected to the community. Willie explains everything from the building materials, to the design of the space, to its uses for ceremony and gathering. He tells Shishigo a story about patience and understanding, teaching us that all are welcome in the circle.
Willie passed away in the winter of 2021. His stories live on.
Video Transcript:
Reflecting on Manidoo Ziibi, A Digital Story
by Christina E. Pasqua
May 2019
Video Description:
Christina Pasqua reflects on the Kiinawin Kawindomowin Story Nations project, its history and ongoing efforts, the many people and places involved along the way, and what it means for her to take part in collaborative research on the land. She tells a story about stories — how they bind us, make us vulnerable, and teach us that relationships are a process.
Video Transcript:
On the banks of Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung, or Long Sault Rapids
with Art Hunter
July 2016
Video Description:
Standing on the bank of Manidoo Ziibi, or the Rainy River, Art Hunter of the Rainy River First Nations explains how the land and water that surround him are a part of him — they form a part of his identity, hold a spiritual energy, and are connected to his ancestors and the generations to come. He teaches us that Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung is a meeting place for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to learn from one another.