Early Descriptions of Ste. Marie II

Fade in: Early Descriptions of Ste. Marie II

Jamie sitting on a printed red and white couch in his library with books filling the background.

(Dr. Jamie Hunter, Archaeologist)

In 1840 they’re allowed to return, and Father Pierre Chazelle, Father Chazelle is the one that goes, we think, back to Ste. Marie I and suggests in his writings that why don’t we make excavations. And this is the first time that someone has actually thought seriously about doing archaeology, to my knowledge, anywhere in Ontario. And in fact, Father Prue, because Chazelle is the superior, his responsibility is to place priests in various locations.

One of those locations is Penetanguishine, and Father Prue really supports and develops this whole notion of conducting historical and archaeological and archival research and in 1846, a couple of other important people, the Anglican clergymen, Reverend Hallan has a daughter Mary and there are two very important individuals in 1846 that are stationed at Penetanguishine. They create the very first archaeological literature, archaeological collections, archaeological illustrations, and this is before Daniel Wilson arrives at U of T in 1851.

This is before the creation of the Canadian Institute in 1851. So here you have this little core of Jesuit priests, Anglican clergymen, and military officials that are forming and writing and informing people about the history of the Huron.

Fade out: End credits.

Special Thanks: Ron Williamson, Peter Carruthers, Jamie Hunter

Filming: Nicole Aszalos

Editing: Brooke Gosden