Kootenay Indian Residential School
Presently known as the St. Eugene Mission Casino and Golf Resort, this was the site of the Kootenay Indian Residential School that operated for almost 100 years from 1873-1970.
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“Since it was within the St. Eugene Mission School that the culture of the Kootenay Indian was taken away, it should be within that building that it is returned.” – Elder Mary Paul, 1984
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After the closing of the residential school in the 70’s and the loss of many artifacts and structural repairs, the local Ktunaxa Nation decided to reclaim the area and focus on a healing project. The past cannot be erased and this building stands as a reminder of the bad memories and the hope for a future filled with good memories learned from the past.
Activity
Visit the First Voices website to learn more about the Ktunaxa language. You can also search this site for language resources of other nations from across Canada.
Invite a member from your local band into the classroom to share traditional stories and cultures relative to your area.