Wanuskewin is a National Historic Site. Its potential to interpret the past, present and future of First Nations was recognized many years ago. Its development has been a collaborative effort of many people- archaeologists, peoples of First Nations ancestry and professional interpreters. Most importantly, Elders of all five language groups in the province have directed Park Development from the very beginning.
What is Wanuskewin?
The name Wanuskewin (Wah-nus Kay-win) is a Cree word that means, "seeking peace of mind" and implies a place where one may reestablish a sense of harmony with the natural world.
The Northern Plains' Indians of pre-contact history had a culture and spiritual foundation that was part of the prairie environment. They visited the Wanuskewin site on a regular basis for over 8000 years to hunt, to gather food and herbs, to escape the winter winds, and to meet others in worship and in celebration.
The Opimihaw (Cree) "one who flies" Valley and Interpretive Centre have presented the story of this rich heritage. The experience is intended to transport visitors back in time so that they may understand the complexities of the society, economy, and environment that preceded modern times on the plains and appreciate First Nation's culture and values today.
On June 7, 1994, Smith Atimoyoo, a Wanuskewin elder, explained how the people used the site as a place for people. An adaptation of his words follow.
The people used to come here to revive their culture - to relearn their songs, their traditional things that they used to do - the sweats and sundances and so on. They talked to each other about how they should be respecting these ceremonies once again as they relived their past. They told stories so that their culture would remain strong. This was a place designated for our people to go to renew their culture, and renew their relationship with nature. These issues are so important to our people, that is why in thousands of years past, our people traveled here to live in harmony with nature - to live in harmony with people. Wanuskewin is a place where we can live in harmony with the land. A peaceful place, not only for our own people but for people from all over the world
(adapted from Wanuskewin Guide Book p.8).
See also the Wanuskewin sites at: