| Maple Creek, in southwestern Saskatchewan, an area rich in game and supplies of lodgepole pine, held great significance for First Nations peoples. By the 1880s, smallpox, the destruction of the bison herds and the Indian treaties had brought the Plains Cree, once strong warriors and hunters, to ruin. Forced to live on reserves, they existed by farming, ranching and casual labour, yet they managed to preserve their language and religion. In Chief Peepin's gaze, perhaps you can see the proud warrior, diminished, but still there. PA-182215 |