Miywasin Story Tours offer a chance to learn region’s Indigenous history

By Samantha Johnson Special to the News on July 5, 2022.

The Miywasin Story Tour, highlighting the preservation and expression in Indigenous communities, is back for another season. The first tour will happen Saturday, with the second set for Aug. 20.

Cultural co-ordinator Brenda Mercer explained the Story Tour begins and ends at the Miywasin Friendship Centre, located downtown at 517 Third Street SE.

Once everyone is gathered, the tour will drive to the landmark Saamis Tepee. In addition, the Saamis Archeological Site, located below the teepee in the Seven Persons Coulee, will also be part of the tour at this stop. After leaving the Saamis Tepee, the group travels to Saratoga Park, which involves a short walk along the Saratoga Trail to reach. This is where a Métis settlement existed for 80 years.

Although scheduled from 1-5 p.m., Mercer, says, “the tour spends about an hour at each place.”

The tour will end back at the Miywasin Friendship Centre, where the group will have the opportunity to participate in making Bannock and other traditional foods, along with hearing stories.

“The Miywasin Friendship Centre houses lots of different things,” said Mercer.

Along with help with housing and obtaining a Métis card, the centre offers programs for youth, adults and children. Everything was on Zoom during COVID, but it is open to the public once again, although by appointment only.

More information about the tour can be found on the Miywasin Story Tour Facebook page. Tickets are available for purchase through Medicine Hat Tourism Centre, go to http://www.tourismmedicinehat.com/features/miywasin-story-tour.

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