Synopsis
For thousands of years, the Anishinabek-speaking nations of Turtle Island met in the middle of their territory on an island known today as Manitouiln. There, a complex system of government formed and chiefs would meet regularly to discuss matters of importance to the Anishinabek. Archeological evidence proves that people have been using the Island’s resources for at least 9,700 years. In recent times, a diverse population of peoples from across the globe have made their way to the Island, seeking to carve out lives from a landscape riddled with lakes and limestone. Spiritual meaning, lumber resources, fertile lands, and fruitful fishing grounds are among the many properties that have drawn people to the Island. Island of Great Spirit explores the complex (and often conflicting) relationships between the Anishinabek, the French, the British, and the settlers, who have all shared the Great Manitoulin and its resources.

This project was produced in cooperation with the Living History Multimedia Association, with funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, FedNor and the City of Greater Sudbury. It is part of the Ontario Visual Heritage Project.