Métis have a strong collective memory, carrying important knowledge and stories across communities and generations.
Following the War of 1812, many of these memories involved American acts of aggression that disrupted and displaced Métis communities in the Upper Great Lakes due to their allyship with the British in defence of their homelands during the conflict.
One such memory was that of the July 1814 American attack on Sault Ste. Marie that destroyed the North West Company depot, which served as an economic and employment hub for many Métis families in the region. That infamous and devastating American attack was provided naval support by the schooners, Tigress and Scorpion.
After being spotted by the British shortly after near Mackinac Island, the two vessels were hunted down and eventually captured near Nottawasaga on Georgian Bay. They were ultimately towed to Penetanguishene and scuttled in the harbour.
With such devastating impacts on their lives at the hands of the vessels and those who commanded them, culminating in their community’s relocation from Drummond Island to Penetanguishene following the war, it is no wonder then that Métis in the Upper Great Lakes carried the story of the Tigress’ and Scorpion’s capture with them across generations.
Even in the early 1900s, Antoine Labatte, son of Métis War of 1812 veteran Louis George Labatte, and Jean Baptiste Sylvestre were among members of the Métis community at Penetanguishene to keep the memories of the War of 1812, like the Tigress’ and Scorpion’s capture, alive, ensuring that future generations would continue to know their Métis community’s story.
These memories and others continue to be shared and passed down within the Métis community today.
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