Battle of the Belly River Project

We want to hear your stories.

The Battle of the Belly River is a significant event that happened between the Blackfoot people and a group of Crees in 1870. Although there have been three publications on the events of this day (1966, 1997, and 2020), all of these publications are a telling of the story from a settler/colonial perspective. History and knowledge of the battle continue to live on in the communities of the Blackfoot people. Many families have stories of their ancestors’ exploits and some families may even have artifacts that were used during the battle that day.

The Galt Museum & Archives | Akaisamitohkanao’pa, in partnership with Lethbridge College, Reconciliation Lethbridge and the City of Lethbridge Indigenous Relations Office, are embarking on a project that will focus on and highlight Niitsitapi knowledge and perspectives of the event. We believe this project will continue efforts toward reconciliation and relationship building by informing residents of the impact the battle had on the development of the Lethbridge.

In order to focus on the Niitsitapi voices that have been ignored in the past, the Galt will engage with Elders and Knowledge Keepers from the Blackfoot communities about this specific event. In addition to this, we are encouraging community members and families to share any stories that have been passed down. We also understand that some families may even have items/artifacts from the event that they have been safe keeping for the family. We would be very interested in photographing these items and hearing the story that is associated with them.

We would be honoured to have you trust us with your family history. If you are interested in contributing to the project, please contact Camina Weasel Moccasin (Ikinainiahkii, Gently Singing), Indigenous Curator at camina.weaselmoccasin@galtmuseum.com or phone 403.320.3838.

This project was funded in part by the Government of Alberta.