Clearwater River, courtesy of NAABA.Seaptowakinum (unknown birth and death) was an exceptionally strong spiritual leader. It is said that his spirit was so heavy that he left deep footprints in the ground, and this quality allowed his spirit to move underground to survey the land for the hunt or for danger.

He and his brothers fought bravely during the rebellion of the plains to protect Indigenous land sovereignty against the violence of settler colonization, and eventually fled west on the river system to find themselves in a remote fur trading community that later became known as Fort McMurray.

Seaptowakinum established himself and his family on the Clearwater River, trapping, harvesting, and living a traditional life. In 1899, as the Cree headman of nistawâyâw, he was chosen to sign the Treaty 8 territory agreement. After his passing, his son became headman of what became known as the Paul Cree band. His descendants carry his legacy with their strong spirits and volition of land rights today.

The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is celebrating the rich culture and history of Indigenous peoples of this region in recognition of National Indigenous History Month. Please join us throughout the month of June in honoring the original peoples whose stories have marked these lands for time immemorial.