Recognition of the Signing of Treaty 7
September 22 is Treaty 7 Day
Image: Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park
Treaty 7 Day is observed annually on September 22nd to commemorate the signing of Treaty 7 at Blackfoot Crossing in 1877.
As the last of the Numbered Treaties, Treaty 7 between the Crown and the Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, Stoney Nakoda, and Tsuut'ina Nations marks a pivotal moment in history. September 22nd serves as a day to honour the treaty’s significance, offering an opportunity for reflection, learning, and fostering greater understanding and reconciliation within the Treaty 7 region.
Blackfoot Crossing National Historic Site, located in the heart of Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot) territory, is home to the site where Treaty 7 was signed. The site remains deeply significant to the Siksika community, both as a historical landmark and a symbol of enduring cultural heritage.
Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park is a unique, world-class facility built by the Siksika people to offer visitors an authentic cultural experience. This park stands as a testament to the resilience and revitalization of the Blackfoot language and way of life.
Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park has published an ebook, Stories of the Siksika, to educate people about Siksika history, culture, and traditions. Please visit their website to download the ebook.
“The stories of the Siksika are many. They have been passed down through the centuries from one generation to the next. Our long history is also an oral tradition that is interwoven with the land, plants, birds, and animals, especially iinii — the buffalo. To understand our history, you must first understand our stories.” - Stories of the Siksika
You can also learn more by visiting Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park in person, located about 100 km east of Calgary, and by subscribing to their YouTube channel which hosts language and history webinars.
Further Reading and Resources:
Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park
Blackfoot Crossing YouTube Channel
Stoney Nakoda/ Iyarhe Nakoda Nations
Tsuut’ina Nation Cultural Museum
Library and Archives Canada. Treaty Texts: Treaty and Supplementary Treaty no. 7.
Alberta Teachers Association. Stepping Stones: Numbered Treaties within Alberta: Treaty 7.
Betty Bastien, Blackfoot Ways of Knowing – The Worldview of the Siksikaitsitapi.
Calgary Public Library - Treaty 7 Reading List.
Canadian Encyclopedia: Treaty 7
Glenbow Museum. Niitsitapiisini: Our Way of Life
Hugh A. Dempsey, Treaties and Historical Research Centre, Comprehensive Claims Branch, Self-Government, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, 1987. Treaty Research Report - Treaty Seven (1877)
Parks Canada Directory of Federal Heritage Designations: Blackfoot Crossing National Historic Site of Canada
Parks Canada Directory of Federal Heritage Designations: Treaty Nº 7 Signing Site National Historic Site of Canada
Treaty 7 Tribal Council, Walter Hildebrandt, Dorothy First Rider and Sarah Carter: The True Spirit and Original Intent of Treaty 7