Researching Métis Ancestors: Origins, Scrip, and Red River Records

In the late 18th century, Scotsmen traveled to York Factory to work with the HBC. Women and children were not allowed to travel with the men. Being indentured for 3-5 years, these men often coupled with Cree women, creating the Mètis Nation. HBC’s rival, the Quebec-based Northwest Company, sent their men to the Red River area to trap over the winter months. These men also coupled with the Cree women, adding French blood to the Métis. In this presentation, we will discuss 1) Who are the Métis? 2) Researching Métis Scrip 3) Researching ancestors from the Red River 4) Resources for research.