By Nigel Maxwell

Monument to honour Metis veterans

May 18, 2014 | 8:44 AM

Something very special will be unveiled this summer during Back to Batoche Days.

“This is the first of its kind ever. There have been monuments erected for soldiers, but never in history has there been one to honor Metis veterans,” said Event Manager Gaylene Poulin.

The idea for the monument arose in 2010, shortly after the unveiling of a special garden at the historic site.

The Gabriel Dumont Institute of Technologies spearheaded the fundraising efforts, and now four years later the idea is becoming a reality.

The monument will remain at Batoche year round. Poulin said it is the best possible location for it.

Safety first

Safety concerns and tips surrounding discarded needles in P.A.

8h ago

Liquor stores must change hours

Prince Albert limits liquor store hours

12h ago

skin care +

LUXE22 Clinic : Elevating Beauty with Expert Treatments

12h ago

“Not just from what happened in 1885 but it has been a community where for many years Metis gathered, families gathered, and now it is host for the past 44 years Back to Batoche Days,” she said.

The monument will feature the names of the Metis veterans, which in itself has been a challenge to put together. Many of the veterans never registered themselves as Metis.

“Back in the day for whatever reason a lot of people didn't identify themselves as Metis, and now families are coming out and saying yes I'm Metis and proud of their heritage.”

Families interested in providing names for the monument can contact the Gabriel Dumont Institute.

The appearance of the monument is being kept a closely guarded secret until the unveiling in July.

Back to Batoche Days is July 17th to the 20th.

This year will mark the 44th year for the event. Tens of thousands of people gather each year at the historic site for the event.

nmaxwell@panow.com

Twitter: @nigelmaxwell