As the largest freshwater island in the world, Manitoulin Island is believed to be a place of great spiritual power. The Odawa name for the island is Mnidoo Mnising or “Spirit Island.”
Manitoulin Island is located in central Ontario. The island is home to several Indigenous communities: Sheguiandah, Aundeck Omni Kaning, M’Chigeeng, Zhiibaahaasing, Sheshegwaning, and the unceded Wiikwemkoong First Nation.
Above: A worker sits on the Chi-Cheemaun (“Big Canoe”) ferry to Manitoulin Island. The ferry departs from Tobermory and takes just under two hours to reach the island.
Above: All smiles on the ferry. (Photos by Sophia Thompson-Campbell)
Above Left: A canoe travels through sweetgrass in Georgian Bay.
Above Right: A sign reads “stop” in Anishinaabemowin.
In 1867, the Manitoulin Island Treaty (also known as the McDougall Treaty or Treaty 94) sought to allow European Canadian settlement and the extraction of resources on Manitoulin Island. Under the treaty, a system of five First Nation reserves was established.
Wiikwemkoong, however, did not sign the treaty and remains an unceded territory.
Above: Visitors swim and climb at Bridal Veil Falls. During the summer months, tourists come to enjoy several outdoor activities, including hiking, canoeing, and boating.
Above: Visitors enjoy a summer afternoon on Providence Bay beach.
kaitlyn simpson 