Cree Storytelling

“This is a narrative of life in the 1940s around the Little Red River Cree Nation area and how different it is today. In this narrative, I will reflect the lifestyle of the Cree people in our community, where opportunities in Western society were limited.  

Our existence relied heavily on wild game, traditional hunting, trapping, and gathering. This era was marked by significant hardships, compelling young boys to mature quickly and contribute to their households from an early age. Young boys and girls were frequently instructed to exhibit kindness, respect, and a willingness to assist anyone in need when called upon. This principle was particularly emphasized when an elder sought help. By the age of nine, a young boy would already possess the skills to snare a rabbit and hunt grouse, ducks and fishing at the nearby river, utilizing the tools provided by his father or grandfather. These young boys were educated in the value of bravery, which would benefit them in their future endeavors. 

Often, they would embark on solo expeditions to test their courage and familiarize themselves with their surroundings. Mastery of navigation through the wilderness was a crucial aspect of survival, allowing them to assess their decision-making abilities. Prior to their journeys, they would seek guidance from their elders to better prepare themselves. Meanwhile, family members would keep a watchful eye from a distance, ensuring the safety of the young boys and protecting them from potential harm. 

The girls remained at home, absorbing the essential lessons of womanhood from their mothers and grandmothers. The role of women has always been held in high regard, they are respected as the bearers of life and Cree men recognized the vital contributions of women, never viewing them as inferior. In fact, they were often regarded with greater esteem. 

Trapping was a prevalent practice among the Cree people. Both elders and young men embarking on their journeys would venture out with rifles and traps, utilizing dog teams to access their traplines for several weeks to engage in traditional trapping methods. The introduction of snowmobiles later transformed the trapping landscape, gradually replacing the traditional dog teams. While individual trappers employed various techniques, the fundamental practices remained largely consistent. 

Trapping typically commenced in late September for beaver and in late October for other fur-bearing animals. The women played a crucial role in the preparation for trapping. They were responsible for cleaning the animals and handling the meat processing after a successful moose hunt or any other catch, as well as cleaning fish. The women also took care of ducks, rabbits, and grouse. While the men went out hunting and brought home the meat, the women managed most of the meat preparation. Young girls learned these skills from their mothers and grandmothers, and berry picking became a delightful pastime for the women, grandmothers, and girls during the berry season. Some trappers would remain in the field until December 24th, returning home for a day or two to celebrate Christmas with their families before resuming their journeys back to the trapline. This activity served as a source of income for the Cree people and played a crucial role in maintaining their connection to the land, which was essential to their way of life. 

When trapping season arrived, trappers headed out to their lines, leaving the younger woman and elderly at home with the children. These women took on many of the men’s responsibilities, tending to livestock, checking nearby rabbit snares and fetching water from local lakes or other nearby sources. It was a tough life for the elderly women and men, but they were never alone; young boys and girls stayed behind to lend a helping hand. 

They gathered and chopped their own firewood when the supplies prepared by the men began to dwindle. These tasks were typically managed by the Cree men before they embarked on their trapping expeditions. However, when resources ran low, the women willingly took on the duties of their husbands, finding purpose in their work while their loved ones sustained their way of life. In early spring, they often collected birch water from birch trees, all the while maintaining the trails that were essential for daily use. Birch water held significant importance for the Cree people, a tradition that continues today, even as it slowly fades from mainstream society, some individuals still gather it. 

The elders received special care, as the Cree community understood the challenges faced in ensuring their well-being. This was a fundamental principle of their culture. The community took great care of the elderly, honoring them with the respect they rightfully deserved. Daily life revolved around dog teams, horse-drawn wagons, and horseback riding. During that time, the Little Red River was the nearest location with a general store, where one could purchase commodities, rifles, ammunition, and engage in fur trading. It was a tranquil period, characterized by a hard yet straightforward way of life. 

Local games and events took place in Little Red, particularly when individuals received payments from trapping and firefighting and other means of income. Target shooting contests were popular, allowing locals to showcase their marksmanship, often wagering on their ammunition. Many were skilled hunters, and it became a tradition to determine who excelled the most. Betting on tobacco products was also common, and various games were organized to entertain the community. However, these gatherings occurred every now and then, primarily when individuals had some income to spare. Events like hand games and local tea dances were highly valued, as they provided opportunities for people to set aside their differences and unite in harmony.  

Elders shared stories from the past, reminding the youth of the challenges faced and how to navigate obstacles in life. Each tale contained hidden lessons, designed to sharpen the minds of the younger generation. The elders played a crucial role in imparting Cree laws and traditions, ensuring that the youth stayed on the right path. Even today, we have elders who uphold these ancient ways, though many have passed on without the chance to share their wisdom with their descendants.  

Some of these narratives are kept alive by a handful of locals and elders, with the hope that one day our youth will embrace the traditional ways and gain a deeper understanding for the struggles our ancestors faced to secure a better life for us. Indeed, the past was a remarkable time, characterized by a deep connection to tradition and a profound appreciation for the old ways. True appreciation for life comes from understanding the hardships endured by those who came before us. In today's contemporary society, it appears we have lost touch with our identity and heritage. However, we believe that with determination, we can rise again, reminiscent of the past, and cultivate a new generation of individuals who will be resilient in both Cree and Western societies.” 

-Member of ShagowAskee Trappers' Committee