Rooted in History. Living in the Present.
Metis Settlements History Centre
Preserving the stories, traditions, and living culture of the eight Metis Settlements in Alberta — for our people, and for all who wish to learn.
Our Story
A People Defined by the Land
The Metis Settlements of Alberta are the only legislated Metis land base in Canada. Established through decades of advocacy and the landmark Alberta Metis Settlements Act of 1990, our eight communities represent a unique and enduring connection between the Metis people and the land they have called home for generations.
The Metis Settlements History Centre exists to honour that connection — to gather the stories of our elders, document our traditions, and share the living culture of our communities with the world.
Key Moments
A History of Resilience
1800s
The Fur Trade Era
Metis communities flourish across the northwest as skilled hunters, traders, and guides. A distinct Metis culture, language, and identity takes shape at the crossroads of Indigenous and European worlds.
1885
The Northwest Resistance
Louis Riel and Gabriel Dumont lead the Northwest Resistance in defence of Metis land rights and self-determination. The struggle defines Metis political identity for generations to come.
1930s
The Ewing Commission
The Ewing Commission investigates the conditions of Metis people in Alberta, laying the groundwork for the establishment of Metis settlements on Crown land.
1938
Settlements Established
The Alberta government establishes twelve Metis colonies under the Metis Population Betterment Act. Eight of these communities survive and thrive to become today's Metis Settlements.
1990
The Metis Settlements Act
Alberta passes the Metis Settlements Act, granting the eight settlements a constitutionally protected land base — the only legislated Metis land base in Canada. A historic achievement.
Today
A Living Culture
More than 10,000 Metis people call the eight settlements home. Communities continue to grow, govern themselves, and share their culture, language, and traditions with pride.
Living Traditions
Culture, Language & Traditions
The Cree Language
Cree is the primary Indigenous language of the Metis Settlements, spoken and cherished as a living connection to the land and to generations past. Efforts to preserve and pass on Cree — alongside Michif, spoken more broadly across Metis communities — are central to the work of the History Centre.
Jigging & Music
Metis jigging and fiddle music are among the most joyful expressions of Metis culture. Rooted in both Indigenous and non-Indigenous traditions, Metis dance forms draw from many sources — the sash dance, for example, echoes the Scottish sword dance, woven into a distinctly Metis expression. The Red River Jig remains a living art form passed down through generations.
Beadwork & Crafts
Intricate floral beadwork — sometimes called the 'Metis flower' — is one of the most recognizable expressions of Metis artistry. Passed down through families, beadwork traditions are alive and thriving in the settlements today.
Land-Based Knowledge
Hunting, trapping, fishing, and harvesting wild plants and medicines are not just historical practices — they are living traditions that connect settlement members to the land and to their ancestors.
The Eight Settlements
Our Communities
Each of the eight Metis Settlements has its own distinct character, history, and community life — united by a shared Metis identity and a common land base in northern and central Alberta.
~175 km · approx. 2 hrs from Edmonton
Buffalo Lake
Located near Caslan, Buffalo Lake Metis Settlement is known for its strong hunting and trapping traditions and its close-knit community life along the shores of Buffalo Lake.
~390 km · approx. 4 hrs from Edmonton
East Prairie
Situated in the Peace River region, East Prairie Metis Settlement has a proud history of agriculture and community self-governance stretching back to the original colonies.
~230 km · approx. 2.5 hrs from Edmonton
Elizabeth
One of the original Metis colonies, Elizabeth Metis Settlement near Cold Lake maintains deep roots in the fur trade era and continues to celebrate Metis language and culture.
~145 km · approx. 1.5 hrs from Edmonton
Fishing Lake
Fishing Lake Metis Settlement, near Smoky Lake, is named for the rich lake that has sustained its people for generations — a community defined by the land and water around it.
~370 km · approx. 4 hrs from Edmonton
Gift Lake
Gift Lake Metis Settlement in the Lesser Slave Lake region is home to a vibrant community with strong traditions in crafts, music, and the Cree language.
~160 km · approx. 1 hr 45 min from Edmonton
Kikino
Kikino Metis Settlement, near Lac La Biche, takes its name from the Cree word for 'our home.' It is one of the larger settlements and a centre of Metis cultural activity.
~680 km · approx. 6.5 hrs from Edmonton
Paddle Prairie
The northernmost of the eight settlements, Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement near High Level is known for its boreal landscape, strong community spirit, and traditional land-based practices.
~350 km · approx. 3.5 hrs from Edmonton
Peavine
Peavine Metis Settlement in the Lesser Slave Lake area is a community with deep roots in the land — its people have maintained Metis traditions of hunting, trapping, and craftsmanship for generations.
"The land is not just where we live — it is who we are."
Plan Your Visit
Come and Experience Our History
The Metis Settlements History Centre welcomes visitors, researchers, students, and community members. Whether you are tracing your Metis roots, conducting academic research, or simply curious about this unique chapter of Canadian history, we invite you to come and learn.
Location
10335 172nd St NW Edmonton, Alberta
Hours
Contact the Centre for our hours of operation.
Admission
Free for all visitors
Group Tours
Available by appointment
Support Our Communities
Take a Piece of Our Culture Home
Every item in the Metis Settlements Marketplace is made by the hands of our people — artisans, makers, and community businesses from all eight settlements.